Enugu to care for 109 ex- Rangers players *As encomium poured for late Chukwu

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By Iheanyi Chukwudi

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has declared the State Government's resolve to take responsibility for the welfare of 109 ex-Rangers players.

This is as he revealed that the state is working with the Federal Government to further immortalise the late Nigerian football legend, Christian Chukwu’s name and achievements.

Mbah announced the welfare arrangement for the ex-Rangers players at the Night of Tributes in honour of the former Green Eagles Captain at the International Conference Centre Enugu.

Pouring encomium on late Chukwu, Gov. Mbah said, “When I learned of his death, it felt as though a part of our collective spirit had left us. He was more than a defender, more than a captain – he was a unifying beacon at a time our nation sought symbols of pride. He united us, inspired us, and carried our hopes with quiet dignity.

He was a proud son of Enugu, an icon of Igboland, and a symbol of what it means to serve with humility and courage. His life teaches us that leadership is not about titles, but about sacrifice, discipline, and the ability to inspire others.

To the family he leaves behind, your loss is deeply felt by all of us. May the legacy he built bring you comfort and pride, knowing that his name will live on not only in Enugu but in the hearts of football lovers around the world.

Let us keep the flame of ‘Chairman’ burning brightly, not just in our memories, but in our everyday pursuit of excellence, unity, and resilience. That is the greatest honour we can give him."

Chairman Chukwu, widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers, captained both the Enugu Rangers and the Nigerian national team, then known as the Green Eagles, leading them to historic victories. Beyond his playing days, he was revered for his leadership, humility, and discipline, qualities Mbah said “will illuminate the paths of future generations.”

Tributes also poured in from his daughter, Barr. Adaora Ndibe, who eulogised him as a loving and exemplary husband and father, and from his sister, Mrs. Stella Onwe, who described him as the pillar of the family. Renowned former Rangers and Green Eagles goalkeeper, Emmanuel Okala, praised his exceptional leadership abilities, humility, discipline and commitment to his family and friends.

Also former Governor of old Anambra State and former Minister of Works, Senator Jim Nwobodo, represented by Deacon Okey Ogbodo, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters and Rural Development; former Inspector General of Police, Chief Ogbonnaya Onovo; General Manager of Rangers International FC, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, represented by the Secretary, Barr. Alexander Egbo; and former Chairman of Enugu Sports Club, Barr. Emeka Etiaba paid their Tributes.

Other dignitaries at the event included former Governor of Anambra State, Dame Virginia Etiaba; past and current members of the Enugu State Executive Council; former member of the House of Representatives, Barr. Chijioke Edeoga; Dr. Ibenaku Onoh and Chief John Ogbodo, council chairmen of Enugu North and Nkanu West LGAs, respectively; members of the Rangers International FC management, and several current and ex-Rangers players.

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