Former Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has mourned the passing of former Super Eagles skipper and coach, Christian Chukwu, celebrating his exploits and contributions to the development of sports, particularly football in Nigeria. Obaseki, in a statement, described Chukwu as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished and accomplished football players and coaches, noting that his passing comes at a time when the country is in dire need of heroes like him who can help restore Nigeria’s glory in sports. The statement reads: “I received with a heavy heart the sad news of the passing of one of Nigeria’s most distinguished and accomplished football players and coaches, Christian Chukwu. “A legend in the game, Chukwu played a key role in the growth and global recognition of Nigerian football, leading the national team to its historic victory at the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations and later serving the country dutifully as a coach and mentor, discovering young talents and projecting them to national and international prominence. “A true ambassador of Nigerian football, Chukwu was a disciplined, committed, and patriotic sportsman. His exploits and exemplary leadership, both on and off the field distinguished him and set him apart from his contemporaries. He wrote his name in gold in the annals of Nigeria’s football history.” “At a time when our nation seeks to reclaim its pride and glory in sports, Nigeria needs more heroes like Christian Chukwu who can commit themselves wholeheartedly to the service of our nation through sports,” Obaseki added. According to Obaseki, “His passing has created a huge vacuum in Nigeria’s football and sports community. He will be sorely missed for his passion, humility, and dedication to the game. “My heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, friends and associates, as well as the football community in Nigeria, Africa and indeed the world. May the good Lord grant his soul eternal repose.”