Former captain and head coach of Nigeria’s national men’s football team, Christian Chukwu, has died at the age of 74. His passing was confirmed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Saturday, though the cause of death was not disclosed.
Chukwu famously captained the Super Eagles to their first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980. “We have lost a hero. Chukwu embodied integrity, dedication, and leadership both on and off the field,” said NFF Secretary-General Mohammed Sanusi in a tribute.
Before lifting the trophy in Lagos in 1980, Chukwu was part of the Nigerian squad that earned bronze medals at the 1976 and 1978 AFCON tournaments held in Ethiopia and Ghana, respectively. His outstanding performance at the 1980 edition earned him the Most Valuable Player award.
Beyond his playing days, Chukwu also made his mark as a coach, leading Kenya’s national team, Harambee Stars, and guiding the Super Eagles to the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia.
The NFF noted that his death comes just 20 days after the 45th anniversary of Nigeria’s historic 1980 AFCON triumph. Chukwu now joins a list of his 1980 teammates who have passed away, including Best Ogedegbe, Moses Effiong, Okechukwu Isima, Tunde Bamidele, Atugbu, Mudashiru Lawal, and Martins Eyo.