President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to Nigerian football great Christian Chukwu, describing him as a national icon whose achievements on and off the pitch “brought joy to millions.”
Chukwu, who captained the Green Eagles to Nigeria’s first Africa Cup of Nations title in 1980 and later guided the Super Eagles to bronze at the 2004 AFCON as head coach, passed away on Saturday at age 74.
“The President joins the football community in mourning a legend whose contributions to the beautiful game elevated Nigeria’s status globally,” Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the president’s spokesman, said in a statement.
Nicknamed “Chairman” for his leadership qualities, Chukwu spent his club career with Enugu Rangers, steering them to multiple domestic trophies and continental success with the 1977 African Cup Winners’ Cup victory.
In his eulogy, President Tinubu said, “Christian Chukwu was more than a footballer and coach. He was a symbol of excellence and patriotism.
He brought joy to millions, mentored a generation of footballers, and stood as a pillar of the 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, and 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.”
Tinubu also prayed for comfort for Chukwu’s family and the wider Nigerian sporting community, saying he hoped they would find solace in the enduring legacy of a man who “wrote his name in gold” on African football.
