The Nigeria Football Federation has expressed sympathy with players and officials of Rivers United FC following a road accident involving the club’s team bus.
The accident occurred on Thursday, June 4, along the Obiri-Ikwerre Airport Road on the outskirts of Port Harcourt, shortly after the team departed for Awka, Anambra State.
Rivers United were travelling to Awka for their 2026 President’s Federation Cup Round of 16 fixture against Nasarawa United when the incident occurred.
In a statement, the NFF said it received news of the accident with shock, but expressed gratitude that no life was lost.
“While we thank God that there were no fatalities, we empathise with those who sustained minor injuries in the accident and wish them a quick recovery,” NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said.
The federation assured Rivers United of its support and solidarity during the recovery period of the affected players and officials.
Rivers United also confirmed the incident in an official statement, saying the bus was conveying players, coaching staff and other officials when the accident happened.
The club said some members of the contingent sustained minor injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
It, however, assured supporters that there were no fatalities or life-threatening injuries, adding that all affected persons are in stable condition and under close medical supervision.
“The safety, health and well-being of our players and officials remain our utmost priority,” the club stated.
“We can confirm that some players and officials sustained minor injuries in the accident. Thankfully, there have been no fatalities or life-threatening injuries reported. All affected individuals are currently receiving appropriate medical attention and are in stable condition.”
The club said it is reviewing its travel arrangements following the incident while continuing preparations for the Federation Cup fixture.
Rivers United are scheduled to face Nasarawa United at the Awka City Stadium, with kickoff fixed for 4 p.m. The winner will progress to the quarter-finals of the competition.
The Port Harcourt-based club thanked its supporters, partners and the wider football community for their concern, prayers and messages of support after news of the accident broke.
