AFCON 1980 star Charles Bassey dies at 71, football fraternity mourns again

DDM News

The Nigerian football community is mourning the death of Charles Bassey, a key member of the victorious 1980 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) squad.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that he passed away on Saturday at the age of 71 in his hometown of Eket, Akwa Ibom State.

His death followed a long illness which he had battled quietly over the years.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the sad news through a statement released on Monday.

The NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, expressed deep sorrow over Bassey’s passing.

He described the day as a double tragedy for Nigerian football.

Just hours earlier, Christian Chukwu, the captain of the 1980 Green Eagles, had also been announced dead.

Chukwu, fondly called ‘Chairman’, died in Enugu after a period of illness.

Sanusi lamented the two losses, calling them a painful blow to the football family.

He prayed for the souls of both men to find eternal rest.

Charles Bassey was one of the 22 players who made history for Nigeria in March 1980.

The Green Eagles triumphed over Algeria with a 3–0 victory at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos.

That victory marked Nigeria’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title.

It was a moment of national pride and celebration, with the players forever etched in football history.

Bassey played a critical role in that historic tournament.

Born in the early 1950s in Eket, Bassey’s football journey began at the grassroots level.

He quickly rose through the ranks due to his skill, strength, and sharp attacking play.

He was admired for his commitment on the pitch and his calm personality off it.

After his playing career ended, Bassey dedicated himself to coaching.

He managed several Nigerian football clubs during his coaching career.

These included Calabar Rovers, Mobil Pegasus (his hometown club), BCC Lions of Gboko, and Flash Flamingoes of Benin.

He also coached Akwa United and Wikki Tourists of Bauchi.

Bassey contributed to the growth of Nigerian football at both national and community levels.

His coaching career was marked by a passion for mentoring young talents.

He was respected by players and colleagues alike for his dedication and leadership.

With his death, Bassey becomes the ninth member of the 1980 Green Eagles squad to pass away.

Other deceased teammates include Best Ogedegbe and Moses Effiong, who were goalkeepers.

Defenders Christian Chukwu, Okechukwu Isima, and Tunde Bamidele have also passed.

Midfielders Aloysius Atuegbu and Mudashiru Lawal are among the departed as well.

Martins Eyo, another forward, is also on the list of fallen heroes.

The 1980 Green Eagles team remains one of the most cherished in Nigeria’s football history.

Their AFCON victory on home soil remains a high point in national sports.

It brought unity, pride, and global attention to Nigerian football.

Charles Bassey’s role in that triumph will not be forgotten.

His service to the sport continued even after his days as a player.

As a coach, he inspired countless young players across Nigeria.

Many fans and football analysts describe Bassey as a humble and loyal servant of the game.

Tributes have poured in from fans, clubs, and former teammates across the country.

Nigerians continue to express their gratitude for his contributions to the sport.

The deaths of Bassey and Chukwu have reignited calls for better recognition of Nigeria’s football legends.

Many believe that their legacy should be honoured with national awards or sports facilities named after them.

Some have called on the NFF and government to document and preserve their stories for future generations.

The memory of Charles Bassey remains a strong symbol of commitment, passion, and excellence in Nigerian football.

His legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and the players he mentored.

He is survived by family, friends, former teammates, and the countless footballers he coached.

Nigeria has lost not only a

legend but also a builder of the game.

May his soul rest in peace.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook