Christian Chukwu, a legendary figure in Nigerian football, has sadly passed away at the age of 74. Reports indicate that the former captain and head coach of the Super Eagles died in the early hours of Saturday in his home state of Enugu. The exact details surrounding his death remain unknown at the time of this report.

His passing was confirmed by Dr. Olusegun Odegbami, a longtime teammate and friend, via a heartfelt post on his official X account. Odegbami, who won the 1980 Africa Nations Cup alongside Chukwu, described him as “one of the greatest football players in Nigeria’s history,” referring to him fondly as “Chairman.”

Born on January 4, 1951, Chukwu captained the Green Eagles (now Super Eagles) between 1974 and 1980. He led the national team to their first Africa Cup of Nations victory in 1980 and guided Enugu Rangers to an Africa Cup Winners Cup title in 1977. Chukwu also played pivotal roles in Nigerian football as an assistant coach for the Golden Eaglets’ triumph at the 1985 FIFA U16 World Cup in China and the Super Eagles’ 1994 World Cup debut.

Though his career witnessed highs, including his appointment as Nigeria’s coach from 2003-2005, challenges also emerged, such as his dismissal during the 2006 World Cup qualifiers.

In recent years, Chukwu battled prostate cancer and received significant support, including financial aid from philanthropist Femi Otedola for treatment abroad. He leaves behind an indelible legacy in Nigerian football history.