NFF Takes Bold Step as Christian Chukwu, Peter Rufai Laid to Rest Amid Tears
- The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has shown great concern about the burial ceremony of two Super Eagles legends, Christian Chukwu and Peter Rufai
- Both AFCON winners, but at separate eras, have been buried in their respective hometowns with NFF chieftains in attendance
- A prominent Governor has taken a giant step in remembering the legacy of one of the ex-internationals
Former Super Eagles captains Christian Chukwu and Peter Rufai both died in 2025, but in separate months.
Chukwu, popularly known as 'Chairman," died at the age of 74 at the Niger Foundation Hospital in Enugu State on April 12.
His cause of death remains unknown but it is on record that the former Super Eagles coach was flown to the United Kingdom around 2019, with his medical bills covered by Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola.
Source: Getty Images
Meanwhile, Peter Rufai died at the age of 61, following a prolonged illness.
The 1994 AFCON winner becomes the sixth member of the squad to pass away ( late Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, Wilfred Agbonavbare, Thompson Oliha and Uche Okafor).
NFF supports late Chukwu
The Nigeria Football Federation claimed to have extended financial assistance to the families of Super Eagles legends Christian Chukwu and Peter Rufai for their funeral rites.
According to Punch, Chukwu was laid to rest on Saturday, August 16, at his hometown in Obe, Enugu State.
President of NFF, Ibrahim Gusau praised the former Super Eagles captain for his dedication during his playing days and as coach of the team.
Gusau, who was represented by the Chairman of the Nigeria National League, Chief George Aluo said Chuku gave total dedication while serving the nation.
Enugu Governor retires iconic jersey no. 5
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah has directed Rangers International to retire the number five jersey in honour of Christian Chukwu.
According to Premium Times, Governor Mbah gave the directive during the Night of Tributes held on Thursday, August 14th.
Mbah said the current government will synergise with the Federal Government towards immortalising Chukwu’s legacy. He said:
“For me, and I believe for so many as well, it is difficult for you to have met Chairman without being inspired by his simplicity and humility.”
Source: Getty Images
NFF attend Rufai’s burial
The Nigeria Football Federation paid their last respect to 1994 AFCON winner Peter Rufai.
According to Sportsnow, the Super Eagles legend was buried in Lagos on Friday, August 15, after a funeral mass at the Catholic Church of Visitation in Festac Town.
Peter Rufai is the first Nigerian goalkeeper to play at the FIFA World Cup (1994), and the first goalkeeper to play professional football in Europe.
A high-powered NFF delegation will also be present at the three events leading to the interment of Rufai, who won a gold medal and two silver medals from three Africa Cup of Nations participations.
Okpara speaks about Rufai's death
Legit.ng earlier reported that former Super Eagles defender Godwin Okpara has shared his thoughts about his teammate’s death and praised him as a caring and dedicated person during his life.
Okpara added that Rufai did not speak up about his condition, which unfortunately led to his death and urged other ex-internationals not to keep quiet about their condition.
Source: Legit.ng
