EX-SUPER EAGLES PLAYER AND COACH, CHRISTIAN CHUKWU BURIED IN ENUGU
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By: Sefiu Ajape
The late Nigerian football legend and coach, Christian Chukwu, fondly known as “Chairman”, was on Saturday laid to rest in his hometown, Obe, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Chukwu, a former Super Eagles captain and head coach, passed away on April 12 at the age of 74.
Speaking at the burial, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State said the ceremony marked the conclusion of nearly 10 days of events, which began with nights of tributes in both Lagos and Enugu.
He noted that a colloquium and several ceremonial activities were organised in honour of the football icon.
“For me, and I believe for so many as well, it is difficult for you to have met Chairman without being inspired by his simplicity and humility.
“Without a doubt, he was disciplined, dignified, polite, and empathetic,” Mbah said.
Offering condolences to the family, the governor added, “As a government, we are going to always stand by you and ensure that Chukwu is immortalised, for indeed he served and loved Enugu and Nigeria with all his heart.
“Let us be comforted by the remarkable memory and legacies he left behind.”
In his homily, the Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ike, praised Chukwu’s remarkable contributions to football in Nigeria and across Africa.
He described him as a “strong man” who led his team through many battles, winning victories on and off the field, while remaining a dedicated family man.
“Chukwu has won battles with Rangers, Super Eagles and others. The Lord has been gracious unto him through several battles; he was an all-rounded man, very generous, and his generosity extended to the family of St Philip’s Church, Obe,” Ike said.
He recalled that Chukwu, after leading Nigeria to victory at the 1980 Nations Cup, was honoured with a National Award, and in 2012 received the prestigious African Football Legend Award in recognition of his impact on the sport across the continent.
Responding on behalf of the family, Mr. Chukwuemeka Chukwu Jr expressed gratitude to the dignitaries and well-wishers who came to pay their last respects to his father.
Born in Enugu, Chukwu is celebrated as one of Nigeria’s greatest defenders, renowned for his leadership and defensive prowess.
He captained both Enugu Rangers and the Nigerian national team, guiding the Super Eagles to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title in 1980.
He later managed the Super Eagles and Rangers, earning admiration for his humility, discipline, and lifelong dedication to football.
Among the dignitaries present at the burial were former Labour Party presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi; President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, represented by Chairman of the Nigeria National League, Mr. George Aluo; and Senator Victor Umeh representing Anambra Central.
Others included members of the Enugu State Executive Council, retired Anglican Archbishop of Enugu Diocese Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Chukwuma, former Rangers players, the former Chairman of Enugu Sports Club Chief Nnanna Atuonwu, and several others.
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