The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has stepped forward to provide both financial and moral support towards the successful organisation of the final funeral rites for two of the nation’s most celebrated football icons and former Super Eagles captains, Christian Chukwu, fondly known as Chairman, and Peter Rufai, popularly called Dodo Mayana.
Christian Chukwu (MFR), who made history by captaining the Nigerian national team to its very first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Victory in 1980, passed away on April 12 in Enugu after a brief illness. His burial was conducted on Saturday in his hometown of Obe, Udi Local Government Area, following a week-long series of events dedicated to celebrating his life and enduring legacy.
The Nigeria Football Federation was strongly represented at the final rites of Chukwu. Chief George Aluo, Chairman of the Nigeria National League, stood in on behalf of the NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau (MON). He was joined by Barrister Okey Obi, the Federation’s Director of Legal Services, and Chikelue Iloenyosi, Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association, among others.
In his condolence message delivered through Chief Aluo, NFF President Gusau described Chukwu as a true patriot, an inspirational leader, and a sports ambassador whose humility and simplicity left lasting impressions on everyone who encountered him. Chairman was more than a captain; he was a beacon of hope and a symbol of commitment to the Nigerian dream, the statement read.
One of the most moving highlights of the funeral week was the Night of Tributes organised in Enugu. During the event, the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, announced that the iconic number 5 jersey, which Chukwu wore throughout his glittering career at Enugu Rangers, would be permanently retired in his honour. Governor Mbah also pledged that the state government, in partnership with the Federal Government and the NFF, would take concrete steps to immortalise Chukwu’s name and legacy.
“For me, and for countless others, it is difficult to encounter Chairman without being deeply inspired by his humility, leadership, and devotion,” Governor Mbah emotionally remarked at the burial ceremony.
Meanwhile, attention now turns to Lagos, where preparations are underway for the burial of Peter Rufai (MON), another towering figure in Nigerian football. Rufai, who famously captained the Super Eagles to their maiden FIFA World Cup appearance in the United States in 1994, will be laid to rest on Friday. His funeral rites will begin with a wake-keep on Thursday evening at his residence in Amuwo-Odofin, followed by a funeral mass at the Catholic Church of Visitation in Festac Town.
Rufai, affectionately nicknamed Dodo Mayana for his acrobatic goalkeeping style, enjoyed a stellar international career. He represented Nigeria in three editions of the Africa Cup of Nations, winning one gold medal and two silver medals, and played professionally in Europe, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
A high-powered NFF delegation has also been scheduled to attend all three major events leading up to Rufai’s interment, reaffirming the Federation’s commitment to honouring the sacrifices and contributions of the nation’s football legends.
Together, the final farewells to Chukwu and Rufai mark not only the loss of two national heroes but also a moment of reflection for Nigerian football a reminder of the legacies built, the victories achieved, and the inspiration passed on to generations yet to come.
