Tributes have continued to pour in for ‘Chairman’ Christian Chukwu, who led Nigeria to win their first-ever AFCON title in 1980 and was named Player of the tournament.
A commanding central defender in his hey days, Chukwu also went on to lead the Super Eagles as coach.
Chukwu, 74, died today in Enugu after a period of illness.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu said Chukwu was a sympbol of excellence and patriotism.
“Christian Chukwu was more than a footballer and coach,” President Tinubu said in an official statement.
“He was a symbol of excellence and patriotism. He bought joy to millions, mentored a generation of footballers, and stood as a pillar of Nigerian brand and sportsmanship on and off the pitch.
His legacies will continue to live on in the trophies he won, the lives he touched, amd the exciting moments he provided to football fans and spectators on the field and in the technical area.
“We are forever grateful for his contributions to the sport we all love, and we will always remember him with great respect and admiration.”
General Secretary of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mohammed Sanusi, said: “We have lost a good and great man. Chukwu was the definition of a strong, dedicated and disciplined leader on and off the field. He was not nicknamed ‘Chairman’ for nothing. He embodied strength, vision and consistency.
“We pray 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.”
“Christian Chukwu was not just a footballer; he was a symbol of pride, discipline, and excellence,” added National Sports Commission (NSC) director general Bukola Olopade.
“His leadership on and off the field inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of millions of Nigerians. The nation mourns the loss of a giant.”
His teammate in that history-making team of 1980, Segun Odegbami said: “My bosom friend and teammate, one of the greatest football players in history, former captain and coach has passed on.
“May ‘Onyim’ find peace with our creator in Heaven.”
Veteran journalist Mittchel Obi described him as “Field Marshal”, who was soft spoken but steely at heart and drive, while one-time president of the country’s supporters club Oladipo Rauf said Chukwu did “everything with commitment and patriotism”.
