Sports minister celebrates ex-Nigeria captain and coach Chukwu at 70

The sports minister Sunday Dare has paid glowing tribute to former Super Eagles head coach Christian Chukwu who clocked 70 on Monday.

Dare described Chukwu, who captained the Nigerian team to the country’s first Africa Cup of Nations title in 1980, as a legend and true patriot.

“Congratulations to a patriotic, dedicated, disciplined and committed Nigerian Chairman Christian Chukwu as he attains the landmark age of 70 years,” the minister said in a statement he signed on Tuesday.

“You not only worked hard to win laurels for club and country, you also brought glory and honour to our dear nation as a coach.

“Your sense of duty, patriotism and  service to our dear fatheland was not only  exemplary,  but infectious.  

“You are indeed a great role model who impacted on your generation and those after you positively. No words are enough to describe you. As you celebrate your birthday,  on behalf of Mr. President and all Nigerians, we wish you many happy returns, more blessings, long life in sound mind and body. May your labour not be in vain.”

Chukwu, who has been decorated with a national honour, had a distinguished playing and coaching career.

He was a stalwart in central defence for both the national team and Enugu Rangers, and he achieved success with both teams in the 1970s and 1980s.

As a coach, Chukwu has worked with multiple national teams and was part of the coaching set-up that won the AFCON title again and led Nigeria to qualify for the country’s World Cup in 1994.

‘Chairman’ Chukwu also captained and coached Rangers. He had serious health concerns in 2019 but has been hale and hearty for months after travelling abroad for treatment.