The Member representing Nkanu East/West Federal Constituency of Enugu State at the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Nnolim Nnaji, has expressed that the passing of former Nigerian national team captain, Christian Chukwu, at the age of 74, is a monumental tragedy for football fans and the country as a whole.
In a statement made in Abuja, Hon. Nnaji conveyed his deep sorrow upon hearing the news of the football legend’s demise, noting that it has created a significant void in both Nigerian and African football.
He remarked on Chukwu’s extraordinary talent during his playing career with Rangers International Club of Enugu and the Super Eagles, highlighting that he earned the nickname “Chairman” due to his remarkable defensive skills in repelling attackers.
Hon. Nnaji further commended Chukwu’s substantial contributions to Nigerian and African football, asserting that he was a colossus whose influence as both a player and a coach will be remembered for years to come.
“His achievements as a footballer from Nkanu West Local Government brought glory, honour and recognition to my constituency, Enugu State, the country, and the African continent at large,” he stated.
As he bids farewell, Hon. Nnaji urged everyone to remember Christian Chukwu as the captain of the Super Eagles’ squad that clinched the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations title, as well as for his role in securing a bronze medal as the team’s coach during the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Christian Chukwu served as the head coach of the Super Eagles from 2002 to 2005, leading the team to a bronze medal at the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia. Additionally, he was the Assistant Coach of the Golden Eaglets team that won the FIFA U16 World Cup in China in 1985 and was part of the technical staff that helped the Super Eagles qualify for their inaugural FIFA World Cup finals in 1994. Chukwu also coached Rangers International of Enugu and the Harambee Stars, Kenya’s senior national team.