A sombre cloud has settled over Nigeria’s academic and diaspora communities following the death of a 36-year-old Nigerian student, Hammed, who passed away in the United Kingdom after a sudden and severe deterioration in his cancer condition.
His death was confirmed through a GoFundMe campaign initiated by Mariam Ajibola and Mohammed Chaanda on behalf of Piety Mosque, which originally sought support for his medical treatment before being updated to request assistance for his burial.
Hammed, a Lagos resident from Ayete in Oyo State, relocated to the UK in September last year to pursue a Master’s degree in Business and Management at the University of Plymouth. Despite a cancer diagnosis earlier in the year, he reportedly pressed on with his academic programme, determined to finish his studies even while navigating intense physical and emotional strain.
Described as the youngest of four children and the “joyful heart” of his family, Hammed was remembered for his warmth, generosity, and easy rapport with people. Organisers said his condition began to worsen rapidly in recent weeks, prompting plans to return him to Nigeria so he could spend his final moments with loved ones. However, doctors eventually ruled that he was not stable enough to travel.
With repatriation no longer an option, attention shifted to ensuring he received a dignified burial in the UK. The campaign pointed out that approximately £5,000 was needed for a 50-year burial plot and coffin. Public sympathy surged, with donations surpassing £6,000 by Sunday—leading the organisers to pause incoming contributions.
“We are raising funds to give Hammed a dignified burial,” the appeal stated, highlighting the emotional and financial strain now weighing on his grieving family.
