Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Executive Governor of Enugu State, attended the Night of Tributes in honour of Christian Chukwu, Late former Super Eagles player and coach on Wednesday.
Mbah described Chukwu, who was a “proud” son of Enugu, as a “unifying beacon”.
After learning of the passing of the former Rangers International FC and Green Eagles captain, the Governor said, “it felt as though a part of our collective spirit had left us”.
Christian Chukwu passed on 12 April, 2025.
Honouring Chukwu’s memory, Governor Mbah announced, he will assume “responsibility for the upkeep of the 109 ex-Rangers players”, as well as, sustain the legacies of the former Super Eagles defender and immortalise his name.
Taking to X, Governor Mbah made known: “Yesterday, I attended a Night of Tributes in honour of the football legend, Chairman Christian Chukwu, MFR, former Rangers International FC and Green Eagles captain, as well as former Rangers and Super Eagles coach.
“Christian Chukwu was more than a defender, more than a captain; he was a unifying beacon at a time our nation sought symbols of pride. He was a proud son of Enugu, an icon of Igboland, and a national treasure. He led both Enugu Rangers and the Nigerian National Team with a rare mix of discipline, humility, and resolve. Beyond football, he embodied leadership, commanded respect, fostered discipline, and inspired greatness.
“When I learned of his death, it felt as though a part of our collective spirit had left us. Yet his legacies will endure. As a fitting tribute to his exploits as a Central Defender, we will be “retiring” the iconic Number 5 jersey that Chairman Chukwu proudly wore throughout his Rangers career.

“In honour of his memory, the Enugu State Government will assume responsibility for the upkeep of the 109 ex-Rangers players. Working in collaboration with the Federal Government, we will soon announce further steps to sustain his legacies and immortalise his name. Through these, future generations will walk paths illuminated by Chukwu’s ideals.
“To his family, your loss is deeply felt by all of us. And to every citizen of this state and nation, let us keep the flame of “Chairman” burning brightly, not just in our memories, but in our everyday pursuit of excellence, unity, and resilience.
“Rest in perfect peace, Chairman.”