Christian Chukwu, former Super Eagles coach and captain of Nigeria’s national football team, has passed away at the age of 74.

The Nigerian football icon, who hailed from Enugu State, reportedly died in the early hours of Saturday, though the exact cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.

His death was confirmed by ex-teammate and fellow 1980 AFCON winner, Dr. Olusegun Odegbami, who mourned him in a heartfelt post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, describing Chukwu as “one of the greatest footballers in Nigeria’s history.”

Chukwu, fondly known as “Chairman,” led the Green Eagles (now Super Eagles) to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980. He also captained Nigeria during their runner-up finishes in 1976 and 1978.

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At the club level, Chukwu made history with Enugu Rangers International FC, guiding the team to victory in the 1977 African Cup Winners’ Cup.

He served as an assistant coach for Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets team that won the FIFA U-16 World Cup in 1985 and was also part of the coaching crew of the 1994 Super Eagles squad that qualified Nigeria for its first FIFA World Cup appearance.

Chukwu became head coach of the Super Eagles from 2003 to 2005 and led the team to a bronze medal finish at the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia. He also had a stint as the head coach of the Kenya national team in 1998.

In 2019, the football legend battled prostate cancer, which led to complications and a public appeal for funds. Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola donated $50,000 for his medical treatment in the UK, a gesture that was widely celebrated across the football community.

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Until his death, Chukwu remained a respected figure in Nigerian sports, having served as General Manager and CEO of Enugu Rangers FC, a position appointed by former Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

He was also a recipient of the national honour – Member of the Federal Republic (MFR), recognizing his immense contribution to Nigerian football.

Christian Chukwu’s legacy as a player, coach, and mentor continues to inspire generations of Nigerian footballers.

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