Christian Chukwu, former coach of the Super Eagles and a legendary figure in Nigerian football, has passed away at the age of 74.
The football icon died on Saturday morning, though the exact cause of death has not been confirmed as of the time of this report.
His passing was confirmed by his longtime friend and former teammate, Dr. Olusegun Odegbami.
“I just received the news that between 9:00 and 10:00 this morning, ‘Chairman’ Christian Chukwu, MFR, my dear friend and teammate, one of Nigeria’s football greats, has passed on,” Odegbami shared. “Babuje, Emmanuel Okala, MON, gave me the heartbreaking news moments ago. May ‘Onyim’ find eternal rest with our Creator, and may his family be comforted.”
Chukwu made history as both a player and coach of the Nigerian national team.
Chukwu began his football journey with Rangers International of Enugu, one of Nigeria’s most successful football clubs, where he played a crucial role in their dominance during the 1970s.
He also coached several domestic clubs and worked with national teams outside Nigeria, including a stint with the Kenyan national team.
