LAGOS: Billionaire businessman and philanthropist Femi Otedola has joined the nation in mourning the passing of former Super Eagles captain and coach Christian Chukwu, who died on Saturday at the age of 74.
Widely known by his nickname “Chairman” for his commanding presence and leadership on the pitch, Chukwu’s death has left a deep void in Nigerian football, sparking tributes from across the country.
In a heartfelt message shared via his social media pages on Sunday, Otedola praised Chukwu for his remarkable legacy, describing him as a true patriot who used football as a powerful tool for national unity.
The sudden passing of the legendary Christian Chukwu, former captain and head coach of the Super Eagles, came as a rude shock to me,” Otedola wrote. “As one of Nigeria’s patriots, Christian Chukwu creatively used the game of football as a unifying force, bringing us together as individuals and as a nation.
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Otedola also reflected on Chukwu’s illustrious career, both as a player and a coach, calling his contribution to Nigerian football “legendary and forever etched in our national history.”
In 2019, when Chukwu was diagnosed with prostate cancer that affected his mobility, Otedola stepped in to sponsor his treatment abroad. Recalling this gesture, the Executive Chairman of Geregu Power PLC said he was grateful to have been able to assist during a critical period in the football legend’s life. Back in 2019, when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I stepped in to provide the necessary support that enabled him to receive comprehensive medical treatment in the United Kingdom,” Otedola said.
pictures of Femi Otedola visit to Christian Chukwu and wife
That intervention helped him navigate a very challenging time and gave him a renewed lease on life.
He extended his condolences to Chukwu’s family, friends, and fans around the world. My heartfelt condolences go to his entire family and to the fans who admired him globally. May you all find strength during this difficult time. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
Christian Chukwu captained the Nigerian national team to its first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory in 1980. As a coach, he led the Super Eagles from 2002 to 2005, guiding them to a third-place finish at the 2004 AFCON tournament in Tunisia.
He dedicated his club career to Enugu Rangers, where he won several national titles and lifted the 1977 African Cup Winners’ Cup, cementing his status as a football legend
