JUST IN: Former Super Eagles coach Christian Chukwu dies at 74

Former Super Eagles coach, Christian Chukwu, has passed away at the age of 74. He died earlier today, though details surrounding his death remain unclear at the time of filing this report.

Segun Odegbami, a former teammate and close friend, confirmed Chukwu’s death on Saturday.

“I just received the news that between 9:00 and 10:00 this morning, ‘Chairman’ Christian Chukwu, MFR, my bosom friend and team mate, one of the greatest football players in Nigeria’s football history, former captain and coach of Nigeria’s national football team, has passed on,” Odegbami wrote.

“Babuje, Emmanuel Okala, MON, gave me the sad news a few minutes ago.”

Nigeria captain Christian Chukwu leaves the pitch after his team’s 3-0 win 

In 2021, false reports of Chukwu’s death had circulated widely, prompting the legendary coach to refute the rumors during his 70th birthday celebration on January 4, 2021.

Reacting then, Chukwu said: “I am terribly embarrassed with this news that I am dead. Several people have been calling me from across the world since the news broke. I am still investigating the source of the story.”

Chukwu, affectionately known as “Chairman,” was a prominent figure in Nigerian football — both as a player and as a coach. His legacy in the sport remains significant.