The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed profound grief over the passing of former Super Eagles head coach and captain, Christian Chukwu, who died on Saturday morning.
A legend of Nigerian football, Chukwu made his mark both as a player and a coach. He captained the national team to its first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on home soil in 1980, where he was also named Player of the Tournament. He also helped Nigeria secure bronze medals at the 1976 and 1978 AFCON tournaments.
“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,” said NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi.
“We pray that the Almighty grants his soul eternal rest, and gives comfort to his family, friends, and the entire Nigerian football community.”
Beyond Nigeria, Chukwu also coached Kenya’s national team, the Harambee Stars. He returned to lead the Super Eagles in 2002 and guided the team to a third-place finish at the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia.
