Nigeria mourns football legend Christian Chukwu, dead at 74
Christian Chukwu, former captain and coach of Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, has died at the age of 74. His death was confirmed on Saturday, April 12, 2025, by his longtime teammate Segun Odegbami. Chukwu passed away in his hometown of Enugu, Nigeria.
Chukwu, affectionately known as “Chairman,” led Nigeria to its first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980 as team captain. He later coached the Super Eagles to a third-place finish at the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia.
Born on January 4, 1951, in Enugu, Chukwu spent his entire playing career with Enugu Rangers, achieving multiple domestic titles. He earned 54 caps and scored five goals for Nigeria between 1974 and 1981. As a coach, he managed teams including Kenya’s national team and his beloved Enugu Rangers.
In 2019, Chukwu battled health issues and received support from the Nigerian Football Federation and philanthropist Femi Otedola for medical treatment abroad.
The Nigeria Football Federation expressed deep sorrow over his passing, describing Chukwu as “a strong, dedicated, and disciplined leader on and off the field.”
Chukwu is survived by his wife and four children. His legacy as a player and coach has left an indelible mark on Nigerian football.
