Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau has declared that the late former Green Eagles captain ‘Chairman’ Christian Chukwu is a man that will forever live in the memory of Nigerians.
Chukwu, who captained the Green Eagles to Nigeria’s first Africa Cup of Nations title in 1980, passed away in Enugu on April 12 at the age of 74 after a brief illness.
Gusau spoke on Friday in Enugu when a delegation from the NFF and FA Chairmen from the South East zone paid a condolence visit to Chukwu’s family.
Gusau, who spoke through the NFF 1st Vice President, Chief Felix Anyansi-Agwu, described Chukwu as a diligent and patriotic leader who served the country with all his heart and mind, and every ounce of his energy.
“The late Chukwu gave his all for the country. He served Nigeria with all his heart and he is a hero even in death,” Gusau said.
“One thing is clear: Chukwu can never be forgotten given how well he served the country and his achievements both as a player and as a coach.”
The NFF President noted that the visit was not just a condolence visit but one the football ruling body made in order to be intimated, first-hand, of plans by the family ahead of Chukwu’s burial.
“We want to be on the same page with the family and know what plans they are putting in place. Chukwu is a hero and the NFF will participate fully in his burial,” Gusau assured.
Chukwu’s son, Emeka, while responding on behalf of the family, commended the NFF leadership for the visit even as he disclosed that the family will soon make public the programme of the final burial rites for the 1980 AFCON’s Most Valuable Player.
Also on the delegation were member of the NFF Executive Committee and Chairman of the Nigeria National League George Aluo, Chairman of Enugu State Football Association Tony Ugwu, Imo State FA Chairman Ifeanyi Dike and Anambra State FA Chairman Chikelue Iloenyosi.
