Former Nigerian international and current Sporting Director, Enyimba FC, Ifeanyi Ekwueme, has joined the football community to pay a tribute to the late Christian Chukwu.
He described him as a “true legend of Nigerian football” following news of his passing at the age of 74 on Saturday, 12 April, 2025
Ekwueme, who played under Chukwu during the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Tunisia, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, recalling the late coach’s immense influence both on and off the pitch.
“Coach Chukwu was more than just a coach to many of us—he was a mentor, a father figure, and a symbol of discipline and resilience,”
“I had the privilege of playing under him during the 2004 AFCON, and his leadership left a lasting impression on my career. He gave his all to the game and to Nigeria. We’ve truly lost a legend.”
Christian Chukwu, affectionately known as ‘Chairman’, captained the Green Eagles to their first-ever AFCON title in 1980 and later served the nation in various coaching capacities, including as head coach of the Super Eagles.
His contributions to Nigerian football spanned decades, earning him admiration and respect across generations of players and fans alike.
Chukwu passed on at the age of 74 after a prolonged battle with illness. Tributes have continued to pour in from across the football world in honor of his legacy.
Coach Christian Chukwu MFR will be vastly remembered in the footballing world for his immense contributions to the sport, his humility, patience, love, discipline, friendliness, passion, dedication and commitment to the round leather game. He was my second father, my mentor, admirer, in fact he gave me the platform to my numerous invites and consistency in the super Eagles I can never forget him in a hurry. He was a perfect gentleman and a lover of good things. He has left a big vacuum in our football and he will be greatly missed. I am so saddened by his demise and I pray the good Lord forgive his shortcomings and repose his gentle soul in His divine presence… Amen 🙏