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Barrow leads tribute for legendary footballer Biri Biri

Jul 23, 2020, 10:44 AM | Article By: Arfang M.S. Camara

Gambian legendary footballer, Alh. Momodou Njie, alias Briri Biri was laid to rest on Wednesday 22 July 2020 at the Jeshwang Cemetery, with President Adama Barrow leading a tribute at his memorial service.

Hundreds of mourners across all sectors paid their last respect to the former football legend who died in a local hospital in Dakar, Senegal on Sunday after battling a long illness.

The former Gambia international was affectionately known as one of Africa’s most completed footballers of all time.

The late football icon was accorded a befitting national tribute at the Banjul Arch before finally being laid to rest.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Gambian leader, President Adama Barrow said that the late legendary footballer Biri Biri, who started playing at 15, has made his mark on the world stage as he played with great footballers with great teams as well.

“He played against the world's greatest players, and made his mark on the world stage.  Today, he leaves behind a unique reputation in Africa and Europe, not to mention his motherland, The Gambia.”

For his part, Bekai Nji, late Biri Biri’s brother thanked the government, Gambians within and abroad for providing assistance during the late Biri’s sickness, adding that they would not speak much about his achievements in the football but only to pray for Allah’s mercy.

Other speakers during the funeral ceremony includes: Hadrammeh Sidibeh, Youth and Sports Minister who was Biri Biri team mate,  Mass Axi Gaye, former team mate and coach of Biri Biri, Mr. Adama Hala Samba, president of Wallidan Football club; Lamin Kaba Bajo, president, Gambia Football Federation.