NFF pays tribute to late ex-international Ajibade ‘Kunde’ Babalade
The Nigeria Football Federation has paid glowing tributes to late ex-Super Eagles’ defender, Ajibade Babalade.
Kunde as he was fondly referred died of heart attack on 4th September 2020 and would be buried in Ibadan, tomorrow, Friday, 15th January 2021.
He was a member of the Super Eagles squad that won bronze medal at the 1992 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Senegal. He spent most of his playing career with 3SC in Ibadan.
Dr Mohammed Sanusi, the general secretary of the NFF described him as an “energetic and highly dedicated player who defended the colours of Nigeria with so much passion, fervour and elan.”
“Ajibade Babalade was a rugged and no-nonsense defender who was happy to wear the colours of Nigeria at any time. Whenever he was there on the field of play, there was never a doubt as to his total commitment.
“He was like a soldier on the war front like no other. Nigerian Football will miss him greatly. We pray that God grants his soul eternal rest, and also grant those he has left behind, particularly his family members, the fortitude to bear the loss.” he added.
He was a member of the Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan squad that won the first edition of the CAF Cup competition, then known as MKO Abiola Cup, in 1992. He was also a member of the 3SC squad that won the Nigeria League and Cup double in 1995.
Babalade was again in the 3SC team that won the WAFU Clubs’ Cup in 1998. He also had short spells in South Korea with FC Seoul and Austria with Sturm Graz.
