Former Green Eagles coach, Christian Chukwu, has sadly passed away at the age of 74.
He died earlier today, with details surrounding his passing still emerging at the time of this report. His death was confirmed by his longtime friend and former teammate, Dr. Olusegun Odegbami.
“I just received the news that between 9:00 and 10:00 this morning, ‘Chairman’ Christian Chukwu, MFR, my dear friend and teammate, one of Nigeria’s football greats, has passed on,” Odegbami stated.
“Babuje, Emmanuel Okala, MON, gave me the heartbreaking news moments ago. May ‘Onyim’ find eternal rest with our Creator, and may his family be comforted.”
Chukwu was a monumental figure in Nigerian football, first making his mark as a player and later as a coach. He captained the national team to its inaugural Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980 and subsequently led the Super Eagles as head coach in the early 2000s.
His illustrious playing career began at Rangers of Enugu, which he led to numerous local and international victories. Chukwu was known for his calm demeanour and earned the nickname ‘Chairman’ for his exceptional leadership on and off the pitch.
In addition to coaching various domestic clubs, he also had the opportunity to work with national teams outside Nigeria, including a notable stint with the Kenyan national team.
