Who was Abubakar Lawal, the Nigerian footballer who died in Uganda?

The Nigerian football community is in mourning following the tragic death of former Wikki Tourists forward Abubakar Lawal who died in Uganda.

The 29-year-old, who played for Uganda’s Vipers SC since his move from AS Kigali, reportedly fell from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade in Kampala under unclear circumstances. Lawal had visited a Tanzanian friend, Omary Naima, before the incident. He was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Read Also: Ugandan police investigate mysterious death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal

Achievements

Lawal played as a centre forward and joined Vipers SC in July 2022. During his time at the club, he helped them win the Uganda Premier League and the Uganda Cup double in 2023.

This season, he made eight appearances in the Uganda Premier League, though he did not register a goal or assist. In the previous campaign, he featured in seven matches, scoring two goals.

Read Also: FG seeks probe into Nigerian footballer, Abubakar Lawal’s death in Uganda

Before moving to Uganda, Lawal played for AS Kigali in Rwanda and had stints with Nigerian clubs Nasarawa United and Wikki Tourists.

According to Transfermarkt, Lawal began his professional career with Wikki Tourists in January 2019, spending one season before joining Nasarawa United in November 2020. He later moved to AS Kigali in July 2022 before signing for Vipers SC.

One of his most memorable achievements was scoring Vipers’ first-ever group-stage goal in the CAF Champions League during a 1-1 draw with Raja Casablanca.

Lawal’s Football Career at a Glance

Played as a centre forward.

Joined Vipers SC in July 2022.

Helped Vipers SC secure a league and cup double in 2023.

Made eight appearances in the Uganda Premier League this season.

Previously played for AS Kigali, Nasarawa United, and Wikki Tourists.

Started his professional career with Wikki Tourists in 2019.

Scored Vipers’ first-ever group-stage goal in the CAF Champions League.

Mystery Surrounding His Death

The tragic incident, which occurred on February 24, 2025, has raised concerns, with the Nigerian government demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Lawal, who was also a final-year student at Cavendish University, was regarded as a promising talent in Ugandan football. His sudden death has left many unanswered questions, with Nigerian football stakeholders calling for justice.

Lawal was born on September 3, 1995, in Sokoto, Nigeria

His death has sent shockwaves through the football community, and many are demanding a comprehensive investigation to uncover the true circumstances surrounding his tragic demise.

May his soul rest in peace

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