‘Great loss to Nigeria’, Sanwo-Olu mourns Christian Chukwu

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passing of former Super Eagles coach, Christian Chukwu, describing his death as a great loss to Nigeria.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser (SA) on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, said the captain of the Green Eagles, who won the African Nations Cup (AFCON) in 1980, was a legend.

The governor further described the death of the national icon, who served as both player and coach to the national team, as a painful loss to the nation, particularly to football lovers.

He expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Chukwu family, the Enugu State Government, and the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) on the passing of the ex-player of Enugu Rangers, saying that Chukwu, popularly known as ‘Chairman’, would be sorely missed.

He, therefore, urged his family, friends, colleagues and football fans to take the death of the former coach of the Kenya national team as an act of God.

“The death of Christian Chukwu is a painful loss to the country. Nigeria has lost a legend and national icon. He was one of the best Nigerian players and coaches in football history.

“He served Nigeria passionately as captain of the national team, then known as the Green Eagles, between 1974 and 1980. He made history as the first Nigerian captain to lift the African Nations Cup Trophy after a 3–0 victory over Algeria in the final of the 1980 tournament.

“Christian Chukwu also coached the Super Eagles and later became General Manager and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Rangers International F.C., which he once played for. He was also a one-time coach of the Kenya national team,” the governor said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu prayed to God for eternal peace for the late Christian Chukwu and for Him to grant the family, friends and football fans the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.