Former Super Eagles captain and coach Christian Chukwu was buried on Saturday at his country home in Obe, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Mr Chukwu, fondly called Chairman, died on April 12 at the age of 74.
Speaking at the burial, Enugu State governor Peter Mbah said the ceremony concluded nearly 10 days of events in Lagos and Enugu, which included a night of tributes and a colloquium.
“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,” 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. Let us be comforted by the remarkable memory and legacies he left behind.”
In his homily, the Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ike, praised Chukwu’s contributions to football in Nigeria and Africa.
“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,” he said.
The bishop recalled that Chukwu was honoured with the National Award in 1980 after leading Nigeria to its first Africa Cup of Nations title.
He also received the African Football Legend Award in 2012.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Chukwuemeka Chukwu Jr thanked guests for honouring his father.
Christian Chukwu was born in Enugu and is regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest defenders.
He captained Enugu Rangers and the Super Eagles before moving into management, where he also coached both teams.
Among dignitaries present were Labour Party 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Ibrahim Gusau, represented by the chairman of the Nigeria National League George Aluo, senator Victor Umeh, members of the Enugu Executive Council, retired Archbishop of the Enugu Diocese Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Chukwuma, former Rangers players and the former chairman of Enugu Sports Club Nnanna Atuonwu.
