The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, on Friday led a high-powered delegation to the residence of late football icon Christian Chukwu, fondly known as “Chairman,” to pay respects and offer condolences to his family.
Chukwu, a former captain of the Green Eagles and ex-coach of the Super Eagles, passed away on April 12 at the age of 74. His death has been met with widespread tributes across the Nigerian sports community.
Speaking on behalf of the NFF during the visit, the federation’s First Vice President, Felix Anyansi-Agwu, described Chukwu as a national hero who left an indelible mark on Nigerian football through his decades of service as both a player and a coach.
The late Christian Chukwu was a true patriot who gave everything for the game and his country,” Anyansi-Agwu said. “He is a hero in every sense of the word and will remain unforgettable in the annals of Nigerian football history.
The NFF delegation, which included top officials from the South East zone, said the visit was not only to mourn Chukwu’s passing but also to engage with the family on burial preparations and affirm the NFF’s commitment to playing an active role in the final rites.
We are here to stand with the family and ensure we are fully involved in honouring this great legend,” Gusau affirmed through his vice president. “The NFF is ready to support every step of the burial process to give Chukwu the befitting farewell he deserves.”
Responding on behalf of the family, Emeka Chukwu, son of the late football hero, expressed gratitude for the visit and assured that funeral arrangements would be announced in the coming days.
Joining the NFF President on the condolence visit were Executive Committee member and Chairman of the Nigeria National League, George Aluo; Enugu State FA Chairman, Barrister Tony Ugwu; Imo FA Chairman, Barrister Ifeanyi Dike; and Anambra FA Chairman, Chikelue Iloenyosi.
