A former Green Eagles goalkeeper, Pa Amusa Adisa, has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to accord the late former Super Eagles coach, Christian Chukwu, a befitting national burial.

Chukwu who led the Green Eagles to a historic AFCON victory in 1980 on home soil died in his home town Enugu on Saturday, April 12, at the age of 74.

Adisa, who worked with the late football icon during his stint with the national team together with Augustine Eguavoen, described the development as a great loss to the nation’s sporting community.

Speaking with our reporter on Sunday, Adisa said Chukwu has paid his dues as a player and coach for both clubs and the national team and called on the upcoming players to emulate his dedication which earned him respect across boards.

“We worked together and he was a very quiet, unassuming, nice and very accommodating personality with a good character. 

“Nigeria will miss his leadership qualities which earned him the title of “chairman” because of the respect he earned.”

Players and coaches, he said, need to be respected, adding that the deceased was a well-respected player, captain and coach of his days and commanded huge respect from his players.

“He has paid his dues and done his best and Nigeria should give him a befitting national burial”, he added.

“Together we served the NFA as technical crew from 2000 to 2006. He was a legendary figure in Nigerian football, both as a player and as a coach.

“His humility, discipline, and commitment to the sport left a lasting impression on all who worked with him”, he concluded.