May 14, 2026

First Nigerian Goalkeeper, Sam Henshaw ‘The Cat’ Ibiam Dies at 90.

By Farouk Mohammed

samibiam

First Nigerian goalkeeper, Sam Henshaw Ibiam is dead.

Ibiam passed away at the age of 90 on Wedneaday.

Fondly called ‘The Black Magnet’ or ‘The Cat’, the late Ibiam played as a goalkeeper for the pioneer Nigerian national football team, the Red Devils.

The real cause of his death is still unknown.

However, the general secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Dr Sanusi Mohammed said, “we heard from third party source, pulled a call through and his son confirmed it. For us, we thank God for a worthy life he lived.

“His records in the first national team remain sterling and excellent. Certainly, we shall participate in the burial arrangements by the time the family comes up with the programme of activities. It is our prayer that God will grant him eternal rest. We also send our condolences to his family.”

The legendary goal keeper only conceded just five goals in his nine years of representing Nigeria till he retired from international football in 1958.

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