Vipers SC’s Nigerian forward, Abubakar Lawal, tragically lost his life in a motor accident on Entebbe Road in Kampala on Monday morning. He was 29 years old, Footynaija.com reports.
Lawal, who joined Ugandan giants Vipers SC in July 2022, played a key role in the club’s 2022/23 Uganda Premier League triumph. Known for his attacking flair, technical ability, and tireless work ethic, he was a respected figure both on and off the pitch.
Born on September 3, 1995, in Nigeria, Lawal honed his skills in the Nigerian Premier League, turning out for clubs such as Kano Pillars, Wikki Tourists, and Nasarawa United.
His performances earned him a move abroad, where he shone for Rwanda’s AS Kigali, helping them secure the 2022 Kigali Peace Cup with eight goals and ten assists that season.
At Vipers SC, he remains an integral squad member, making eight league appearances this season before his untimely passing.
Lawal’s contributions extended to the continental stage, where he was part of Vipers’ CAF Champions League campaign. He entered Vipers SC’s record books as the player to score the club’s first-ever goal in the group stages of the Caf Champions League.
Renowned local broadcast NTV Uganda confirmed the tragic incident, which has sent shockwaves across the football community.
Vipers SC Nigerian forward Abubakar Lawal has passed away. #NTVNews | More details to follow pic.twitter.com/kSzHUB6Gk6
— NTV UGANDA (@ntvuganda) February 24, 2025
Tributes have poured in from teammates, fans, and former clubs, all remembering him for his talent, dedication, and infectious personality.
Lawal was on the bench just three days before his passing when Vipers defeated Mbarara City in the Uganda Cup.