Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has announced the retirement of the legendary No.5 jersey worn by late Nigerian football icon, Christian “Chairman” Chukwu, during his illustrious career with Rangers International.
The governor made the declaration on Wednesday at a Night of Tributes held in honour of the former Super Eagles captain and head coach, who passed away on April 12, 2025, at the age of 74.
“As a fitting tribute to his exploits as a central defender, we will be retiring the iconic Number 5 jersey that Chairman Chukwu proudly wore throughout his Rangers career,” Mbah said.
Chukwu, revered for his leadership and defensive mastery, captained both Enugu Rangers and the Nigerian national team, leading the country to its first Africa Cup of Nations title in 1980.
He later managed the Super Eagles and Rangers, earning respect for his discipline, humility, and commitment to the game.
However, Chukwu’s later years were marked by a public grievance he often voiced — the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) owed him $128,000 in unpaid wages, a debt he first revealed in 2008 to BBC Sport and reiterated in 2024 to The Athletic Nigeria.
“They owe Nigerian coaches. They don’t owe foreign coaches,” Chukwu lamented in the 2024 interview. “You take on an indigenous coach who accepts a modest salary, and you owe him. Is it proper? Are you encouraging him to do his job? I am still being owed up to today.”
He noted that other local coaches suffered similar neglect, with some dying before receiving what they were owed.
Governor Mbah also pledged that the Enugu State Government will take responsibility for the welfare of 109 former Rangers players and will work with the Federal Government to further immortalise Chukwu’s name.
“Through these steps, future generations will walk paths illuminated by Chukwu’s ideals,” Mbah said.
Born in Enugu, Christian Chukwu is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest defenders of all time.
