Nigerian football is mourning the loss of one of its greatest icons, Stephen Christian Chukwu, fondly known as “Chairman,” who has passed away at the age of 74.
The sad news was announced by his former teammate and fellow legend, Dr. Olusegun Odegbami, in an emotional tribute shared on social media.
“I just received the news that between 9:00 and 10:00 this morning, ‘Chairman’ Christian Chukwu, MFR, my bosom friend and teammate, one of the greatest football players in Nigeria’s football history, former captain and coach of Nigeria’s national football team, has passed on,” Odegbami wrote.
“Babuje, Emmanuel Okala, MON, gave me the sad news a few minutes ago! May ‘Onyim’ find peace with Our Creator in Heaven, and console his family.”
Christian Chukwu was a revered figure in Nigerian football, having captained the Green Eagles to their historic 1980 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory. After his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and notably led the Super Eagles to the semi-finals of the 2004 AFCON.
In 2021, false reports of his death circulated widely, which he personally debunked during his 70th birthday celebration, reassuring fans of his well-being at the time.
As of the time of this report, the cause of his death has not been disclosed.
May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.