An appeal has been launched to raise funds for the burial and family support of Oluwatobiloba Oyagunna, a 39-year-old Nigerian student in the United Kingdom who passed away suddenly on 2 February 2026, just days after arriving in the country.

According to the appeal, Oluwatobiloba arrived in the UK on 26 January 2026 to begin a Master’s degree in Business and Computing, a lifelong ambition he had worked tirelessly to achieve. He reportedly collapsed in his apartment after losing consciousness and was rushed to the hospital, but despite medical efforts, he sadly did not survive.

Oluwatobiloba was an orphan and the firstborn of three children. He is survived by a loving wife and two young children, whose lives have been devastated by the unexpected loss. Friends and supporters say the family was completely unprepared for the financial burden that followed his passing.

Those who knew him described Oluwatobiloba as cheerful, kind-hearted, and deeply selfless, someone who consistently put others before himself. He was said to be full of hope and excitement about the future, determined not only to improve his own life but to create better opportunities for his family back home.

A close friend, reflecting on their shared past, recalled their days at Kwara State Polytechnic, Public Administration, Class of 2015. They described an era marked by hardship, endurance, and survival, where education went hand in hand with hunger, faith, and resilience.

According to the account, Oluwatobiloba carried immense personal burdens, having no safety net, no inheritance, and little external support. Yet, he remained steadfast, choosing perseverance over despair and effort over excuses.

Friends say that against overwhelming odds, he pushed forward academically and eventually realised what once seemed impossible — travelling to the United Kingdom to further his education. Tragically, the same city that symbolised hope and achievement has now become the place where his life was cut short.

The fundraising effort aims to cover burial and funeral expenses and to provide immediate support for his grieving family. Supporters say the goal is to ensure that Oluwatobiloba is laid to rest with dignity and respect, while easing the burden on his wife and children during this painful time.

Those behind the appeal emphasise that no donation is too small, noting that every contribution represents solidarity with a man who fought quietly but courageously throughout his life. For those unable to donate, sharing the appeal is also encouraged.
The GoFundMe page created in his honour can be found here: www.gofundme.com/f/oluwatobiloba-oyagunna

Many who have reacted to the story describe it as a sobering reminder of the uncertainties faced by migrants and international students, and of the importance of community support in moments of profound loss.