The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu, expresses deep sorrow over the demise of veteran footballer and coach, Sebastian Brodericks-Imasuen. The late coach achieved the historic feat of leading the Golden Eaglets to victory in the inaugural Kodak-FIFA U-17 Championship in 1985, hosted by China. Brodericks-Imasuen, Nigeria’s first World Cup-winning coach, passed away at the age of 85 after a prolonged battle with stroke at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. In his condolence message, the sports enthusiast Deputy Governor stated, “It is with great sorrow that I learned of Sebastian Brodericks-Imasuen's demise."

"He was a renowned sportsman and an experienced coach, elevating Nigerian football to the global arena by securing our nation's first-ever FIFA U-17 World Cup victory in China in 1985. The monumental achievement of this football luminary from Edo sparked a remarkable revolution in youth football, leaving an indelible mark not only in Nigeria but across the African continent."

"For me, his passing is undeniably a profound loss, but it carries with it a legacy of distinction. He has etched his mark in the annals of time, leaving behind indelible footprints as a world-class luminary in the realm of football."

"I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian football family, especially the grieving family members, friends, and associates mourning the loss of this iconic football figure."

"May his serene soul find eternal rest in the embrace of the Almighty Creator," Shaibu concluded.

The late coach also represented Nigeria in the 1968 Mexico Olympic Games, scoring a memorable free kick that secured the Challenge Cup for Bendel Insurance in 1972. In his coaching role, he led a triumphant Nigerian team, alongside Bala Shamaki and Christian Chukwu, to victory in the inaugural FIFA U-17 World Cup in 1985 in China.