Nigeria mourns the loss of Christian Chukwu, the revered former Super Eagles captain and coach, who passed away on Saturday, at the age of 74 at Niger Foundation Hospital in Enugu.
President Bola Tinubu described Chukwu as a symbol of excellence and patriotism, noting his role in bringing joy to millions and mentoring generations.
Tinubu highlighted Chukwu’s legacy in leading Nigeria to its first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980 and his contributions to Enugu Rangers’ 1977 African Cup Winners’ Cup victory.
Similarly, Nigeria’s Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar said Chukwu’s name “stands tall” in Nigerian football history, recalling his grace and dedication from the 1970s to the 1980 AFCON victory.
Also, Former presidential candidate of the Labour party, Peter Obi, hailed Chukwu’s immense contributions and exemplary leadership.
Obi described him a shining example of integrity, noting Chukwu’s distinguished service to Rangers and the Super Eagles.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in a statement by its General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, has described Chukwu’s death a significant loss to Nigerian football.
Sanusi who described Chukwu as a strong, dedicated, and disciplined leader, prayed that the Almighty will grant his soul eternal rest, and also grant the family and friends he has left behind and Nigeria football’s fraternity the fortitude to bear this big loss.
A former teammate, Segun Odegbami, also penned an emotional tribute describing Chukwu as a great leader and dear friend, whose death has left a vacuum in the football community.
The Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah Chukwu a national icon, football titan, and phenomenon whose exploits united Nigeria across divides.
Mbah, calling the loss personal to Enugu, Nigeria, and Africa, praised Chukwu’s patriotism and his golden contributions to Rangers and the Super Eagles.
He directed condolence registers be opened at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and Enugu liaison offices nationwide.
His counterpart, in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu mourned Chukwu as a legend whose death is a painful loss to football lovers.
Born in Enugu, Chukwu captained Rangers International to multiple domestic titles and the 1977 African Cup Winners’ Cup.
He made history as the first Nigerian captain to lift the AFCON trophy in 1980.
As a coach, he assisted in Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON win and led the Super Eagles to bronze in 2004.
Chukwu’s death marks the eighth loss from the 1980 AFCON-winning squad.