As one of Nigeria’s football legends – Christian Chukwu – celebrates his 70th birthday in his Enugu country home, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Sunday Dare, has heaped encomiums on the ex-skipper of the Super Eagles, Chairman Chukwu, as he is fondly called, describing him as a true legend and patriotic icon who served the country meritoriously.
In a statement issued by the minister, Dare said: “Congratulations to a patriotic, dedicated, disciplined and committed Nigerian Chairman Christian Chukwu as he attains the landmark age of 70 years. 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 fatherland 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 celebrateyour 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,” the minister enthused.
Chukwu led Nigeria to win the 1980 Nations Cup on home soil and was decorated Member of the Order of Niger (MON) by former President, Alhaji Shehu Shagari (now deceased).
He was a member of the coaching crew of the 1985 U-16 Kodak World Cup winning team under Coach Sebastian Brodericks-Imasuen (now deceased).
Chukwu served as Assistant to Clemence Westerhof when the Eagles won the 1994 Nations Cup in Tunisia.
He also captained and coached Rangers International Football Club of Enugu, winning many laurels including the Cup Winners Cup in 1977.