From Jude Chinedu, Enugu Tributes continue to pour in for Nigerian football legend Christian Chukwu, who died on Saturday, 12 April 2025, aged 74. From football administrators to cultural leaders and former colleagues, many describe his passing as a monumental loss to Nigerian sports and the Igbo nation. Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in an exclusive interview with The Sun, paid tribute to the former Super Eagles captain and coach. National Publicity Secretary Dr Ezechi Chukwu called him “an ambassador of what an Igbo man represents.” “It’s very unfortunate that we have lost such an iconic figure who added monumental value to Nigerian sports,” he said. “He was an epitome of pride for both Ndigbo and Nigeria. His legendary contribution to soccer will be remembered for too long. I think he has paid his dues.” Dr Chukwu added, “He was a role model to thousands of sportsmen and women across Nigeria and Alaigbo who grew under his shadow. We pray that the legacies he left behind will continue to transcend Nigerian sports and inspire generations to come.” Former Rangers International Chairman Steve Oruruo described Chukwu’s death as “the fall of an Iroko.” “He was the height of Nigerian football,” Oruruo said. “He was the captain of a resurgent Rangers, a symbol of the indestructibility of the Igbo race. Rangers under Chukwu weren’t just a football team, they were a battalion of warriors making bold statements on the pitch in post-war Nigeria.” He praised Chukwu as “a consummate leader, a fantastic captain of both Rangers and the national team, and a rock at the heart of any defence.” Former Enugu State Commissioner Ray Nnaji expressed sorrow. “Christian Chukwu’s passing is a very big loss,” he said. “I know he was 74, which is a commendable age, but we would have loved him to stay longer. I thought he had fully recovered after Mike Adenuga supported his treatment abroad. I’m shocked. May God grant his family the fortitude to bear the loss.” Rangers International Football Club, where Chukwu spent most of his career, declared a mourning period. In a statement, media officer Norbert Okolie said, “This is a devastating loss, not only for Rangers but for the entire football family. Chairman Christian Chukwu was a towering figure, a symbol of resilience, excellence, and leadership.” Club CEO Amobi Ezeaku announced that Governor Peter Mbah directed condolence registers to be opened at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and Enugu State Liaison Offices nationwide. “Chairman Chukwu’s legacy is forever etched in the story of Rangers and Nigerian football,” Ezeaku said. “He led Rangers to domestic and continental triumphs and captained Nigeria to her first AFCON title in 1980. His contributions as a coach also included a bronze finish at the 2004 AFCON and coaching stints with clubs and national teams.” Ezeaku added, “Beyond his accomplishments, Chairman was humility personified. His passion for Nigerian football never waned. We are committed to honouring his extraordinary legacy and ensuring the dream he lived for, a strong, united Rangers and a thriving Nigerian football, is sustained.” Details of tributes and memorials will be announced soon. Chukwu is survived by four children and countless admirers worldwide.