The remains of Nigerian football icon and former Super Eagles captain, Christian Chukwu, popularly known as “Chairman,” were on Saturday laid to rest in his hometown of Obe, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Chukwu, who passed away on April 12 at the age of 74, was celebrated through a series of tributes and memorial events spanning nearly 10 days, beginning in Lagos and concluding in Enugu.
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, speaking at the burial ceremony, described Chukwu as a man of discipline, humility, and dignity whose impact transcended football. He assured the family that the state government would work to immortalize the late legend for his service to both Enugu and Nigeria.
“For me, and I believe for many others, it is difficult to meet Chairman without being inspired by his simplicity and humility. Without a doubt, he was disciplined, dignified, polite, and empathetic,” Mbah said.
In his homily, the Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ike, praised Chukwu’s exploits on the pitch, highlighting his leadership with Enugu Rangers and the Super Eagles. He noted that Chukwu was a “strong man” who fought and won many battles in football while remaining a devoted family man.
The bishop recalled Chukwu’s 1980 Africa Cup of Nations triumph with the Super Eagles, which earned him a national honour, and his 2012 recognition as an African Football Legend.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Chukwu’s son, Chukwuemeka Jr., expressed gratitude to dignitaries and supporters who came to honour his father.
Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest defenders, Chukwu captained the national team to its first-ever Nations Cup title in 1980. He later managed both the Super Eagles and Enugu Rangers, cementing his legacy as a football tactician respected for his discipline and humility.
Among those present at the burial were former presidential candidate Peter Obi, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau (represented by George Aluo), Senator Victor Umeh, members of the Enugu Executive Council, retired Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwuma, ex-Rangers players, and several prominent figures in the sporting community.
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