Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has pledged to immortalise the late Nigerian football legend Christian Chukwu, describing him as a symbol of national unity and pride whose legacy goes beyond the football pitch.
Chukwu, a former captain of the Green Eagles and Enugu Rangers, was buried on Saturday, August 16, in his hometown of Obe, Nkanu West Local Government Area. He died on April 12 at the age of 74.
Delivering an emotional tribute at the burial, Governor Mbah hailed the former central defender as a “national treasure” and “unifying beacon” whose influence resonated beyond sports.
“When I heard of his passing, it felt like a part of our collective spirit had departed,” Mbah said.
“He was more than a defender, more than a captain, he was a symbol of hope at a time when Nigeria desperately needed heroes.”
Mbah praised Chukwu’s humility, discipline, and leadership both on and off the field, calling him “a proud son of Enugu, an icon of Igboland and a man who inspired a generation.”
As a permanent tribute, the governor announced that Chukwu’s iconic jersey number 5, which he wore throughout his career with Enugu Rangers, would be officially retired.
“As a fitting honour for his exploits as a central defender, we will retire the number 5 jersey that Chairman Chukwu wore with pride,” Mbah declared.
The governor’s remarks were echoed by many sports enthusiasts, former teammates, and fans who gathered to pay their final respects to the football legend.
Chukwu, nicknamed “Chairman”, captained Nigeria to victory in the 1980 African Cup of Nations and was widely regarded as one of the most respected figures in Nigerian football history.
