The former Nigerian international and coach of Super Eagles, Christian Chukwu, goes to 74

ENUGU – The Nigerian soccer community is mourning after the death of Christian Chukwu, a legendary figure in the history of football of the Nation, at the age of 74.

Chukwu, a former captain and coach of the Super Eagles, died on Saturday, leaving behind a legacy that shapes Nigerian football for decades.

Chukwu, known with love as “President” for his dominant presence inside and outside the countryside, captured Nigeria to his first title of the Africa Cup (AFCON) in 1980, a historic triumph in the native soil.

His leadership and defensive skill as a setback center for Enugu Rangers and the national team earned him generalized respect, and many refer to him as one of Nigeria’s best players.

As a coach, Chukwu took the Super Eagles to a bronze medal at the AFCon 2004 in Tunisia, although his mandate ended in 2005 during the 2006 World Cup qualifiers.

He also handled clubs in Kenya and Lebanon, where he was celebrated by his professionalism.

However, Chukwu was a member about the challenges faced by indigenous coaches, particularly stating in recent years that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was still wages of his time as coach of the national team.

In 2019, Chukwu faced health struggles, fighting prostate cancer that affected his mobility. The support of the football community and the supporters helped their treatment, but their death marks a gloomy moment for fans who admired their resistance.

The former teammates and players who trained acclaimed their tutoring, with a former Eagles star, pointing out: “The president taught us discipline and pride in the green shirt.”

Chukwu’s death comes at a time when Nigerian football reflects on his past glories and future aspirations. The work of his life, from lifting the AFCon trophy to nourishing young talents, remains an cornerstone of the inheritance of sport in Nigeria.

His family survives, including his children, who have asked for privacy during this period. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, but a state honor of its legacy in ENUGU is expected, where it remains an icon.