The death of a 37-year-old Nigerian postgraduate student in the United Kingdom has sparked renewed anxiety within the diaspora community over the management of chronic illnesses and access to healthcare far from home.
Douglas Izevbigie, who was studying for a master’s degree at Sheffield Hallam University, died on January 21 after battling an aggressive form of leukaemia.
Details of his illness and passing were disclosed in a GoFundMe appeal launched by members of the Nigerian community in the UK to support his family with funeral expenses.
According to the organiser of the fundraiser, identified as Sephora, Izevbigie was diagnosed with a severe form of leukaemia in the middle of his studies last year. She noted that he underwent intensive treatment and was frequently hospitalised due to complications but remained committed to his academic work despite his deteriorating health.
“Even through it all, he continued trying to keep up with his studies, showing remarkable strength and determination,” the appeal read.
Sephora, who described herself as a colleague of the deceased’s sister, Kate, said Izevbigie was found unresponsive in his room by his sister before he was rushed to the Accident and Emergency unit of a UK hospital, where he was later pronounced dead despite efforts to save him.
His passing, she added, came shortly after the family suffered another loss — the death of their mother in Nigeria.
The fundraiser noted that due to the high cost of repatriating his remains, the family resolved to bury him in the UK.
“We are raising funds to cover Douglas’ funeral expenses here in the UK and any additional unforeseen costs during this period. Repatriation and funeral arrangements in Nigeria would be financially overwhelming,” the statement added.
Izevbigie’s death occurred days after another Nigerian resident in the UK, Saburi Adeniji, reportedly died following complications from a severe brain stem injury.
Adeniji, who played as a left winger for Kings Park Rangers Football Club, had been on life support before his death. In a statement, the club said he held on long enough for his family to travel to the UK after public appeals for prayers and financial assistance.
The recent incidents have intensified conversations within diaspora circles about late diagnosis, rising healthcare costs, emotional strain and the vulnerability of Nigerians living abroad without extensive family support systems.
Observers say the developments highlight the need for stronger community networks and improved access to medical guidance for Nigerians pursuing education and careers overseas.
