By John Obi
Former Captain and head coach of Super Eagles of Nigeria, Christian Chukwu is dead
He was aged 74 .
Chukwu, fondly known as “Chairman,” captained the then Green Eagles to Nigeria’s historic first African Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory in 1980.
“Chukwu’s influence on Nigerian football transcended generations. After his glittering playing career, he took up coaching and returned to manage the Super Eagles between 2003 and 2005.
“Under his leadership, Nigeria secured a third-place finish at the 2004 African Cup of Nations in Tunisia.
“Widely respected for his leadership both on and off the pitch, Chukwu was celebrated for his calm demeanour, tactical acumen, and unwavering dedication to the game.
“His contributions to Nigerian football earned him the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
“Beyond his national achievements, Chukwu also had a successful club career with Enugu Rangers, where he won multiple domestic titles and left an indelible mark as one of the club’s greatest players.
“Christian Chukwu is survived by his wife, children, and a legacy that will inspire future generations of Nigerian footballers.
Meanwhile, Friends, and Fans of Chukwu have expressed deep sadness over his death.
One of them is Peter Obi, the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election.
Obi said “
I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing to the greater glory of Christian Chukwu, one of Nigeria’s greatest football icons. Fondly known in football parlance as ‘Field Marshal’ and ‘Chairman’, he was not just a remarkable footballer but also an extraordinary leader who captained and coached the national team and his beloved club, Rangers International of Enugu, with distinction. His skill, discipline, and dedication to the beautiful game brought pride to our nation and joy to millions of fans across Africa and beyond.
Beyond his playing days, Christian Chukwu continued to serve the game as a coach and mentor, nurturing young talents and contributing immensely to the development of football in Nigeria. His life was marked by resilience and patriotism, and his legacy will remain a shining example of what it means to represent one’s country with honour and integrity.
Just a few weeks ago, Rangers suffered another profound loss, with the death of another Captain, Christian Isiadinso, who passed away in March.
Christian Chukwu and Christian Isiadinso sacrificed everything for sports and our nation, both embodying the spirit of resilience and patriotism.
At this difficult moment, my thoughts and prayers are with their families, the football community, and all Nigerians who mourn their great loss. May God grant them eternal rest in His kingdom, and may their legacies continue to inspire future generations of sportsmen and women in our beloved country.
Rest in Peace our True Heroes. -PO
In the same vein, the Governor of Enugu state,Peter Mbah has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Chukwu. The governor described the late soccer star as a football icon adding that his death is a great loss to the state and the nation.
