Sports
NSC DG, Hon. Bukola Olopade Mourns Passing of Football Legend Christian “Chairman” Chukwu
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Christian Chukwu and the entire Nigerian football community following the passing of the legendary former Super Eagles captain and coach.
Chukwu, who died at the age of 74 on Saturday after a period of illness, was one of Nigeria’s most iconic football figures. Fondly known as ‘Chairman’, he captained Nigeria’s national team to its first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980, defeating Algeria 3–0 in the final at the National Stadium in Lagos. He later served as head coach of the Super Eagles and remained a towering figure in Nigerian football.
In a statement, Hon. Olopade described Chukwu as “a true icon, a leader of men, and a national hero whose contributions to the growth of Nigerian football will never be forgotten.”
“Christian Chukwu was not just a footballer; he was a symbol of pride, discipline, and excellence,” Olopade said. “His leadership on and off the field inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of millions of Nigerians. The nation mourns the loss of a giant.”
The former Ogun State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development added: “We commiserate with his family, the Nigeria Football Federation, and every Nigerian who feels this deep loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Born in Enugu, Chukwu began his football journey with Enugu Rangers, leading the club to domestic dominance and continental success, including the now-defunct African Cup Winners Cup in 1977.
He also played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s golden football era, assisting Dutch tactician Clemens Westerhof when the Super Eagles won the 1994 AFCON and qualified for their first FIFA World Cup appearance that same year. As head coach, he guided the team to a third-place finish at the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia.
Hon. Olopade stated the NSC will join Nigerian football family, supporters, and admirers across the globe continue to pay tribute to the Enugu-born icon, whose influence and achievements remain etched in the annals of African football history.
Basketball
Airwarrior Basketball Club Chairman, Celebrates Sallah with Journalists in Abuja
The event, filled with camaraderie and appreciation, provided an opportunity for Alhaji Solademi to acknowledge the vital role of the media in national development and the promotion of sports in Nigeria.
In a warm gesture of unity, oneness, togetherness and goodwill, the Chairman of Air Warriors Basketball Club, Abuja, Alhaji Abddulmajid Solademi, hosted a group of Basketball Journalists on Saturday at his residence in celebration of the Sallah festivities in Abuja.
The gathering that shows the importance of love, peace, and unity values which is crucial not just for the advancement of basketball, but for the overall progress of the nation.
However, the Sallah is a time to reflect on our shared humanity,” he said. “It’s a moment to support one another and to uphold the values that bring us together, rather than divide us.”
Guests at the event shared stories, enjoyed meals, Asun Rice, Oriental rice, Jollof Rice, Swallow in variety with a lot of drinks that mede them to engaged in meaningful discussions on the development of sports in Nigeria, with a special focus on grassroots basketball.
Many attendees praised Solademi for his unwavering support for the sporting community and his ongoing commitment to using sports as a powerful tool for youth empowerment and social transformation.
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