Former Harambee Stars Coach Christian Chukwu is dead. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that Chukwu died in his native city of Enugu on Saturday, April 12, 2025.
He served as the Harambee Stars head coach in 1998, becoming the first non-Kenyan African to lead the team.
Chukwu, who captained Nigeria’s 1980 Africa Cup of Nations-winning squad, died at 74.
He was nicknamed ‘Chairman’ because of his imposing presence and the authority he exuded just in front of the rearguard at both club (Enugu Rangers) and country.
“We have lost a good and great man. Chukwu was the definition of a strong, dedicated and disciplined leader on and off the field. He was not nicknamed ‘Chairman’ for nothing. He embodied strength, vision consistency,” General Secretary of Nigeria Football Federation, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said.
“We pray that the Almighty will grant his soul eternal rest and also grant the family and friends he has left behind, and Nigeria football’s fraternity the fortitude to bear this big loss.”
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He was in the Nigeria senior team that won bronze medals at the 1976 and 1978 AFCON finals in Ethiopia and Ghana respectively, before leading the squad to glory on home soil in 1980.
Chukwu was named Player of the Tournament.
Born on 4th January 1951, Chukwu coached his darling club, Enugu Rangers, which is the only club he played for in his career.
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He then coached Harambee Stars before being named head coach of Nigeria’s national team, Super Eagles, in 2002.
Chukwu led the team to finish third at the 2004 AFCON finals in Tunisia.
“Our ‘Captain’ ‘Chairman’ ‘Coach’ is gone. A True Eagle,” Super Eagles on X.
His death comes exactly 20 days after Super Eagles’ 45th anniversary of the 1980 AFCON triumph.
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President Tinubu Mourns Christian Chukwu
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu also sent a condolence message to his family and friends.
“President Bola Tinubu extends his condolences to the family, friends, and associates of Nigerian football icon Christian Chukwu, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 74, leaving a void in the hearts of many football fans,” Tinubu said.
President Tinubu described him as a towering figure in Nigerian football with a trailblazing career defined by passion, discipline, and commitment to national pride.
“Christian Chukwu was more than a footballer and coach. He was a symbol of excellence and patriotism. He brought joy to millions, mentored a generation of footballers, and stood as a pillar of Nigerian brand and sportsmanship on and off the pitch.
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