The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed its deep sadness following the passing of Christian Chukwu, former captain and coach of the Super Eagles.
Chukwu passed away on Saturday in his hometown of Enugu. He was 74 years old.
Nicknamed “Chairman” for his commanding presence and firm leadership, Chukwu played a major role in Nigeria’s first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory in 1980.
That historic win happened at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, where he lifted the Unity Cup in front of President Shehu Shagari on March 22, 1980. The moment remains one of Nigeria’s most celebrated in football history.
NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, shared the organization’s grief, saying, “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, 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.”
Chukwu was not just a national hero in 1980. He had already been a vital part of the team that secured bronze medals at the AFCON tournaments in 1976 in Ethiopia and 1978 in Ghana. His leadership and defensive strength made him a central figure in Nigeria’s rise in African football. He was even named Player of the Tournament in 1980.
Born on January 4, 1951, Chukwu spent his entire playing career at Enugu Rangers. After retiring, he returned to coach the same club. His coaching career also took him to Kenya, where he managed the Harambee Stars, before he was appointed Head Coach of Nigeria’s national team in 2002. Under his leadership, the Super Eagles finished third at the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia.
His passing comes just weeks after the 45th anniversary of Nigeria’s 1980 AFCON win. Other members of that legendary team who have passed on include goalkeepers Best Ogedegbe and Moses Effiong, defenders Okechukwu Isima and Tunde Bamidele, midfielders Aloysius Atugbu and Mudashiru Lawal, and forward Martins Eyo.
