The Enugu State Government, in collaboration with the family of late football legend Coach Christian Chukwu, MFR, has formally constituted a Central Planning Committee (CPC) to coordinate his burial arrangements and released the full funeral programme.
The committee is chaired by the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, with Barr. Alexander Egbo serving as secretary. It draws membership from both government circles and the sporting community, ensuring a befitting farewell for the man fondly called “Chairman.”
Announcing the decision, Barr. Ekweremadu said the state was committed to honouring the memory of Chukwu, who he described as “a towering figure in Nigerian football whose exploits on and off the pitch will forever be celebrated.”
Christian Chukwu’s legacy is etched in gold: as captain, he led the Green Eagles to Nigeria’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 1980, and as a player and coach, he inspired Enugu Rangers to numerous domestic and continental victories in the 1970s and beyond. He also coached the Super Eagles, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s football history.
In a statement signed by the CPC, the government called on admirers, fans, and associates to join in paying tribute to “a true Nigerian legend whose leadership, discipline, and passion transcended generations.”
Below is the approved programme of events:
BURIAL PROGRAMME FOR LATE COACH CHRISTIAN CHUKWU (MFR)
- Sunday, 10th August 2025
Service of Songs
Venue: St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Trans-Ekulu, Enugu
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM - Wednesday, 13th August 2025
Night of Tributes
Venue: International Conference Centre, Enugu
Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM - Thursday, 14th August 2025
Colloquium: “Life and Times of Christian Chukwu, the Chairman”
Venue: Enugu Sports Club, Enugu
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM - Friday, 15th August 2025
Novelty Football Match
Venue: Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu
Time: 9:00 AM
Christian Wake
Venue: His country home, Obe, Nkanu West LGA - Saturday, 16th August 2025
Lying-in-State and Burial Ceremony
Venue: His country home, Obe, Nkanu West LGA
Time: 9:00 AM Prompt - Sunday, 17th August 2025
Thanksgiving Service
Venue: St. Philip’s Anglican Church, Obe
Time: 10:00 AM
Barr. Ekweremadu added, “Coach Christian Chukwu’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of athletes and Nigerians alike. We urge everyone to join us as we celebrate his remarkable life and contributions.”
For further information, the committee provided the following contacts:
- Barr. Alexander Egbo, Secretary, CPC – 0803 427 9067
- Monday Diamond Ani, Chairman, Committee on Media and Publicity – 0803 784 2794
