The director-general of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has described the late Christian Chukwu as a true icon and national hero who contributed immensely to the growth of Nigerian football.

In a condolence message on Saturday following the passing of the legendary former Super Eagles captain and coach, Olopade described him as a leader of men.

The NSC DG extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Chukwu and the entire Nigerian football community.

“Chukwu is a true icon, a leader of men, and a national hero whose contributions to the growth of Nigerian football will never be forgotten.

“His leadership on and off the field inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of millions of Nigerians. The nation mourns the loss of a giant,” Olopade said.

Similarly, a former Super Eagles coach and an ex-international, Adegboye Onigbinde, described Chukwu’s death at 74 as unfortunate.

Onigbinde says no one expects such news “because, for me, he’s still young.”

Also, former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju described the late Rangers International captain as a respected and down-to-earth person.

“Time will never be enough to express the pain that has hit the entire football circle at this moment.

“Chairman expressed so much affection to his teammates, especially to his players as a coach,” he said.

The ex-player said football lovers were left to remember Chukwu for his legacy and achievements in football.

Meanwhile, a renowned sports analyst, Tayo Balogun, said the late football legend embodied what sportsmanship truly entailed.

Balogun described the late Chukwu as hardworking and always boiling with so much passion for the Nigerian team.

“Chukwu was a national star boy for Nigeria. He brought about a healthy rivalry between Enugu Rangers Football Club and Shooting Stars Sports Club,” he said.

Chukwu, 74, died on Saturday after a period of illness. He was one of Nigeria’s most iconic football figures, fondly called ‘Chairman’.

He captained Nigeria’s national team to its first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980, defeating Algeria 3–0 in the final at the National Stadium in Lagos.

He later served as head coach of the Super Eagles and remained a towering figure in Nigerian football.

Chukwu began his football journey with Enugu Rangers, leading the club to domestic dominance and continental success, including the now-defunct African Cup Winners Cup in 1977.

He also played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s golden football era, assisting Dutch tactician Clemens Westerhof when the Super Eagles won the 1994 AFCON and qualified for their first FIFA World Cup.

As head coach, he guided the team to a third-place finish at the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia.

(NAN)