Bishop Ike charges Nigerians to live life of sacrifice, impact **Gov. Mbah led others to bid Legendary Christian Chukwu farewell

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By Iheanyi Chukwudi

Nigerians have been called upon to emulate the late Nigerian football legend, Christian Chukwu, to live a life of sacrifice and impact.

Making the call in his sermon at the funeral Service of the late football icon and former Captain of the Nigerian Green Eagles, on Saturday at St. Philips Anglican Church, Obe, in Nkanu West Local Government of Enugu State, the Bishop of Enugu Diocese, the RT. Rev. Prof. Samuel Ike, said such life of sacrifice is what you Nigeria needs now.

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Speaking of faith and enduring service, Bishop Ike, who, reminded Nigerians and the mourners of the Christian assurance of resurrection and the value of living a life of sacrifice and impact, qualities he noted embodied by the late Chukwu throughout his storied life.

Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah who led others dignitaries, mourners and admirers to pay final respects to the late "Chairman Chukwu," Nigeria’s football icon and national hero, reaffirmed his government plan to immortalize Chukwu.

The ceremony drew an impressive crowd, including political leaders, Chukwu’s former teammates, footballers, coaches, sports administrators, clergy, royal fathers, in-laws, and members of the community, who gathered to honour a man widely celebrated for his humility, discipline, and enduring legacy in Nigerian and African football.

Paying his tribute, Governor Mbah described the late Chukwu, as an inimitable figure whose virtues left a lasting impression on all who encountered him.

He said, “For me, it is difficult for you to have met Chairman Christian Chukwu without being inspired by his simplicity and humility.

It is without a doubt that he was disciplined, he was dignified, he was polite, he was empathetic.

Chukwu’s remarkable achievements would remain a reference point for many years to come. His leadership and impact at Rangers International and beyond solidified his legacy as a football legend whose influence will inspire future generations.”

Mbah reiterated his earlier pledge that the Enugu State Government would ensure Chukwu’s name is etched permanently in the annals of the state’s history.

He urged his family and children to take pride in his accomplishments and uphold his legacies and the good name he leaves behind, adding: "To his family once again, do not be despondent. You are not alone. The Enugu State Government will always stand by you – for your son and brother loved and served Enugu and Nigeria with all his heart."

The governor also extended appreciation to Obe community "for giving us this great son, and the privilege of sharing him with you," and to the church "for shaping the values that helped him to excel and become a household name and an inspiration."

Chukwu's funeral drew the attendance of many dignitaries, including former Senate President, Senator Ken Nnamani; former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi.

Others are Senator representing Anambra Central, Chief Victor Umeh; Member representing Nkanu East/West in the House of Representatives, Pharm. Nnolim Nnaji; former Minister of Information, Mr. Frank Nweke Jr.; and members of the Enugu State Executive Council led by the Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu.

Also in attendance were former Inspector General of Police, Chief Ogbonnaya Onovo; Secretary of the Police Service Commission, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani; Chairman of Nkanu West LGA, Chief John Ogbodo; and Chukwu’s former teammates and associates, such as Henry Nwosu and Emmanuel Amunike, among several others.