Former Super Eagles captain and coach, Christian Chukwu, is dead

Former Super Eagles coach and Nigerian football legend, Christian Chukwu, has died at the age of 74.

Diaspora Digital Media gathered that he passed away earlier today, though details surrounding his death remain unclear at the time of publication.

In 2021, false reports of Chukwu’s death had circulated widely, prompting the revered coach and former player to debunk the rumours during his 70th birthday celebration on January 4, 2021.

At the time, Chukwu expressed his dismay, stating: “I am terribly embarrassed by this news claiming I am dead. Several people have called me from across the world since the story broke. I am still investigating the source of the report.”

Affectionately known as “Chairman,” Chukwu was a towering figure in Nigerian football—both as a player and a coach. His contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark on its history.

Chukwu with the AFCON trophy in 1980

The Chukwu Career file

Playing Career
– Position: Defender
– Clubs: Enugu Rangers (1972-1981), Nigeria national team (1974-1981)
– Achievements:
– Africa Cup of Nations winner: 1980
– Captain of the Nigerian national team: Led the team to its first Africa Cup of Nations title in 1980
– Challenge Cup winner: Four-time winner with Enugu Rangers (1975, 1976, 1981, 1983)
– Africa Cup Winner’s Cup winner: 1977 with Enugu Rangers

Coaching Career
– Clubs:
– Enugu Rangers: Managed the team from 1982-1985 and 1986-1988
– Nigeria U17: Managed the team from 1985-1986
– Kenya national team: Managed the team in 1998
– Nigeria national team: Managed the team from 2003-2005, leading them to the semifinals of the 2004 African Cup of Nations
– Other roles:
– President of Enugu Rangers: Appointed in 2017
– Caretaker Manager of Heartland FC: Managed the team in 2011
– Assistant Manager of Heartland FC: Served as assistant manager from 2011-2012

Awards and Recognition
– Member of the Order of the Niger: Awarded for his victory at the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations
– Support for medical treatment: In 2019, the Nigeria Football Federation announced plans to help Chukwu with his medical bills, with Femi Otedola contributing to the costs.

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