Former Super Eagles defender, Ben Iroha, has lamented the demise of 'Chairman' Christian Chukwu, saying Nigeria football has lost one of its greatest and finest icons, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

Chukwu died in the early hours of Saturday, 12 April, 2025, at the age of 74.

Iroha spoke from his base in Texas, United States of America, USA, saying death has snatched one of Nigeria's football legends, a n icon, father and inspirator.

"It's sad and painful that Chukwu died at a time like this when his inspiration, advise, guidance and leadership qualities are mostly needed to put Nigerian football back on the groove", Iroha began with emotion.

"Chukwu represents the finest breed of players this country has ever had. Humble, passionate, loving and caring.

"His career as a player was full with achievements, both at the club and national team levels. With Rangers, Chukwu won the African Cup Winners in 1977. He won countless domestic league titles and FA Cups as Rangers Captain.

"At the National and international stage, Chukwu  captained Green Eagles to win the African Cup of Nations for the first time in 1980 in Lagos. 

"As a coach, heassisted Brodericks to win the first FIFA U17 World Cup with Golden Eaglets in 1985 in China. Its also on record that Chukwu was Clemense Westerhof's Assistant in 1994 when Super Eagles won the Nations Cup for the second time, that was in 1994 in Tunisia

"Nigerians haven't forgotten that he was also part of Super Eagles Coaches led by Westerhof when Nigeria first qualified and featured in the World Cup for the first time in 1994 in USA.

"He coached Kenya. He coached SAFA FC, Lebanon. He coached Rangers. What a man of an all round accomplishments.

"We've lost a great, legend and iconic leader and whose vacuum will be hard to fill. May his gentle soul rest in peace", Iroha concluded.