Former Nigeria international and Chairman of Anambra State Football Association, ANSFA, Chikelue Iloenyosi, on Sunday paid a Condolence visit to the family of late 'Chairman' Christian Chukwu MFR at their Enugu residence, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

During the visit at their Trans Ekulu residence, Iloenyosi expressed deep sense of loss over the demise of the iconic and legendary former Nigeria captain who captained the then Green Eagles to win the African Cup of Nations for the first time in 1980.

The 'General' as Iloenyosi is fondly called, recalled qualities and achievements of the late Christian Chukwu and submitted that the football fraternity has lost a 'rare gem' who will be difficult to replace.

"I'm heart-broken. The news of 'Chairman's' death jolted me. He was such a wonderful man, friend, Coach, administrator and adviser on and off the pitch", Iloenyosi said.

"He brought honour and glory to this country by captaining Rangers win the African Cup Winners Cup I 1977. As Captain of the Super (Green) Eagles, Nigeria won her first AFCON title in 1980.

"As a coach, he assisted Sabastine Brodericks to win the first edition of FIFA/JVC U17 World Cup in 1985 in China. 1n 1994, 'Chairman' Chukwu assisted Dutchman Clemense Westerhof to win the AFCON in Tunisia.

"He coached Rangers and won laurels. He coached Kenya Natiinal Team and SAFA FC, Lebanon. Chukwu was an accomplished football person, success personified", Iloenyosi said.

He prayed God to grant eternal rest to the soul of the former Enugu Rangers Captain and also prayed God to give the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Iloenyosi also signed the Condolence Register opened by the Rangers Managemwnt as ordered by the Enugu State Executive Gover, Peter Mbah.