From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
Elder statesman and former Minister of Youth and Sports, Senator Jim Nwobodo, has called on the Federal Government to immortalise the late Super Eagles captain and coach, Christian Chukwu.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the late football legend’s family at their Trans-Ekulu residence in Enugu, Nwobodo emphasised the need for the government to not only honour deceased sports heroes but also cater to the welfare of athletes who served the country in their youth.
“Christian Chukwu was a soccer star, disciplined, committed, and a selfless servant of Nigeria and the South East. He and his teammates lifted the spirit of the Igbo people after the civil war and wrote Nigeria’s name in gold through football.”
Nwobodo lamented that many patriotic sportsmen have been neglected after retirement, facing financial and health challenges due to lack of support. “Femi Otedola had to come from Lagos to pay Chukwu’s medical bills. That’s unacceptable.”
He stressed the importance of celebrating and supporting heroes while they are alive: “It’s good to immortalize the dead, but it’s more impactful to reward their service while they are alive. The dead don’t know what happens after they’re gone.”
Nwobodo, who was governor of old Anambra State when Chukwu played for Enugu Rangers, described him as not just the captain of Rangers FC but also of the Super Eagles, later becoming the national team’s coach.
He suggested the establishment of an endowment fund in Chukwu’s honour and called for the recognition of ex-Rangers players who contributed significantly to Nigeria’s football history.
“These players gave their youth and strength to the country. Now that they are old and weak, the country owes them support and recognition, just like other national icons,” he added.