Gov Soludo, Peter Obi mourn Christian Chukwu’s death

The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has mourned the passing of Mr. Christian Chukwu, who died on Saturday, April 12, 2025, describing him as a distinguished football icon and a true Nigerian patriot.

In his condolence message signed and made available to journalists in Awka on Sunday by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo stated that Mr. Christian Chukwu’s name is etched in the annals of Nigerian football history.

He said Chukwu’s contributions to the development of the sport in the country are immeasurable, particularly for leading the national team to win the Nations Cup (AFCON) in 1980.

The governor noted that, as a player, Chukwu was a colossus—a formidable defender and a leader of men—captaining the legendary Enugu Rangers International Football Club and the national team, the Green Eagles (now Super Eagles), with unwavering dedication and exemplary skill.

His leadership on the field earned him the nickname “Chairman,” inspiring generations of footballers and igniting a passion for the beautiful game across the country

The governor also recalled that Chukwu’s tenure as coach of the Super Eagles further solidified his legacy, as he guided the team with characteristic wisdom and tactical acumen.

His commitment to nurturing talent and fostering unity within the team left an indelible mark on the Nigerian football landscape.

Therefore, Governor Soludo extended his condolences to the family of Mr. Christian Chukwu, the Nigerian football fraternity, and all who mourn his passing, praying that his soul rests in perfect peace.

In a similar development, the former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, also expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Nigerian football legend, describing him as one of the nation’s greatest sports icons.

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In a heartfelt tribute, Obi recalled Chukwu’s towering influence on Nigerian football, where he earned the affectionate nicknames “Field Marshal” and “Chairman” among fans and peers. According to him, Chukwu was not only an outstanding footballer but also an exemplary leader who captained and later coached both the national team and his cherished club, Rangers International of Enugu.

Obi’s condolence message was also contained in a statement signed and made available to journalists in Awka on Sunday by his media aide, Dr. Valentine Obiayiam.

Obi praised Chukwu’s immense contributions to the beautiful game, noting that his skill, discipline, and commitment brought pride to Nigeria and joy to millions of football enthusiasts across Africa and beyond.

He highlighted Chukwu’s dedication to nurturing young talent, serving as a mentor and coach even after his playing days, and playing a pivotal role in the development of football in Nigeria.

Obi described the late footballer’s life as one marked by resilience and patriotism, asserting that his legacy would remain an inspiration to all.

Reflecting on recent losses within the football community, Obi also mourned the death of Christian Isiadinso, another former captain of Rangers International, who passed away in March.

He observed that both Chukwu and Isiadinso sacrificed immensely for the advancement of sports and the nation at large.

Offering his condolences, Obi extended prayers to the bereaved families, the football fraternity, and the entire nation, hoping that God would grant the departed eternal rest and that their legacies would continue to inspire future generations of Nigerian athletes.

 

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE