Rema!ns Of Football Legend, Christian Chukwu La!d To Rest In Enugu

Remains Of Football Legend, Christian Chukwu Laid To Rest In Enugu

Chukwu, a former Super Eagles captain and head coach, died on April 12 at the age of 74.

The late Nigerian football icon and coach, Christian Chukwu, fondly known as “Chairman”, was on Saturday laid to rest at his country home in Obe, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.

Chukwu, a former Super Eagles captain and head coach, died on April 12 at the age of 74.

Speaking at the burial, Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, noted that the ceremony marked the conclusion of nearly 10 days of activities, which began with nights of tributes in Lagos and Enugu.

He explained that a colloquium and other ceremonial activities were carried out in honour of the football icon.

“For me, and I believe for so many as well, it is difficult for you to have met Chairman without being inspired by his simplicity and humility.

“Without a doubt, he was disciplined, dignified, polite, and empathetic,” Mbah said.

Consoling the family, the governor said, “As a government, we are going to always stand by you and ensure that Chukwu is

immortalised, for indeed he served and loved Enugu and Nigeria with all his heart.”

Earlier in his homily, the Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rev. Samuel Ike, extolled Chukwu’s exploits, contributions and development to football in Nigeria and Africa.

He described him as a “strong man” that led his team on a journey and fought and won several battles, as well as a committed family man that loved his family and relations.

“Chukwu has won battles with Rangers, Super Eagles and others. The Lord has been gracious unto him through several battles; he was an all-rounded man, very generous, and his generosity extended to the family of St Philip’s Church, Obe,” Ike said.

He noted that in 1980, after winning the Nations Cup, together with many of his contemporaries, Chukwu was given the National Honour.