President Tinubu Mourns Football Legend ‘Chairman’ Chukwu, Says “He Brought Happiness to Millions”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the passing of Christian Chukwu, a legendary ex-captain and coach of the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles.

Chukwu, who was arguably most remembered for his leadership on and off the pitch, died on Saturday, April 12, aged 74 in Enugu.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu sympathized with the family of Chukwu, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and the sports fraternity as a whole in Nigeria.

“Christian Chukwu was more than a football player and coach. He made millions of people smile, inspired a generation of footballers, and was a pillar of Nigerian brand and sportsmanship on and off the field,” the President added.

Tinubu referred to Chukwu as a “symbol of excellence and patriotism” whose legacy extended beyond sports.

Tinubu indicated that Chukwu’s impact on football had assisted in promoting Nigeria’s image globally and had inspired generations of sportspersons.

Chukwu began his brilliant career at Enugu Rangers, where he proved to be a tough and gifted defender. He captained the then Green Eagles to their first AFCON title in 1980. He also mentored the Super Eagles, who finished third in the 2004 AFCON tournament in Tunisia.

Lovingly called “Chairman” because of his commanding personality and leadership style, Chukwu was well-respected for his humility, dedication, and mentorship.

President Tinubu praised Chukwu not only for his football success but also for the way he fostered unity and national pride through football. He wished that the family would take comfort in the fact that Chukwu made his mark on the nation.

“His legacy will continue to live in the trophies he helped win, the careers he shaped, and the smiles he brought to Nigerians,” Tinubu added.

The President prayed for the soul of Chukwu and invoked the nation to live up to his memory by maintaining unity, discipline, and excellence which he epitomized.

Obituary condolences have continued pouring in from everywhere in Nigeria and the football fraternity, as Chukwu is celebrated for being a trailblazer who paved the way on which Nigerian modern-day football was built.

Funeral and memorial processes will be announced in due time. by his family.

Surviving Chukwu are his wife and four children.