Former Super Eagles Coach, Christian Chukwu passes on at 74, Leaving Nigerian Football in Mourning
Former Super Eagles Coach, Christian Chukwu passes on at 74, Leaving Nigerian Football in Mourning
Christian Chukwu, the legendary captain of the Green Eagles and former coach of the Super Eagles, has passed away at the age of 74. His death was confirmed on Saturday, though the cause remains undisclosed at this time.
In an emotional tribute, former teammate and football legend Dr. Olusegun Odegbami expressed his sorrow: “I just learned that this morning, between 9:00 and 10:00, my dear friend and teammate, ‘Chairman’ Christian Chukwu, MFR, one of Nigeria’s greatest football players, has left us. Emmanuel Okala, MON, brought me this heartbreaking news just moments ago. May ‘Onyim’ find eternal peace with our Creator, and may his family find comfort during this difficult time.”
Known affectionately as “Chairman,” Chukwu was a cornerstone of Nigerian football, celebrated for his significant contributions on and off the field. He captained the Green Eagles to their landmark victory in the 1980 African Cup of Nations and later coached the national team, guiding Nigeria to the semi-finals of the 2004 tournament.
Chukwu’s death comes just 20 days after the 45th anniversary of the 1980 AFCON victory.
In 2021, there were widespread rumors of Chukwu’s death, which he publicly denied during his 70th birthday celebration. He expressed his frustration at the false reports, stating, “I am terribly embarrassed by this news that I am dead. Several people have been calling me from around the world since it broke. I am still trying to find out the source of this story.”
His passing signifies the end of an era in Nigerian football, and tributes are flowing in from across the sports community, honoring a figure known for his leadership and excellence in the game.
