By Babatunde Ogunrinde
Some sports enthusiasts in Lagos have called for the National Stadium in Surulere to be renamed after late Super Eagles captain, Christian Chukwu, who died aged 74.
In an interview on Friday, they said Chukwu, who captained Nigeria to its first AFCON title in 1980, deserves the honour.
Kadir Ikhana, Chukwu’s former teammate, recalled that Chukwu was the first national captain to lift the AFCON trophy, doing so at the national stadium, Surulere.
He noted this achievement came alongside many patriotic players who should be remembered as examples for future generations of Nigerian footballers.
“Renaming the Surulere stadium after Christian Chukwu isn’t too much. That’s where Nigeria hosted and won its first African football title.
“That victory marked the beginning of greater football achievements for Nigeria, a nation which has since embraced football as a unifying sport.
“For us, football has long served as a reminder of national unity. Chukwu’s legacy fits that message perfectly.
“He was a true leader and a gentleman. The Nigerian and African football communities have lost a rare gem,” Ikhana stated.
Similarly, football pundit Raymond Nwaduba stressed that no tribute is too big for a national hero like Chukwu.
Nwaduba said Chukwu’s impact gave Nigerians hope that unity through sport was possible, inspiring a spirit of brotherhood.
“Chukwu worked tirelessly, both as a player and coach. He always aimed to bring the best out of the national team.
“We remember him for his success at the 1980 Nations Cup. That moment placed Nigeria on the continental and global football map.
“His legacy will live on. No honour is too great for our fallen hero,” Nwaduba said.
Tony Nezianya, Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, also supported the idea of immortalising Chukwu.
However, he stressed the stadium should be renovated first before renaming it after the late football legend.
Harrison Halls, Chairman of the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria Task Force, shared similar views.
“He represented dedication and national service, both as a player and coach. Renaming the Surulere stadium is very appropriate,” he stated.
A sports lawyer, Abiodun Sonaike, believe that sentiments shouldn’t stop the honour if the motive is national unity.
“More importantly, how usable are our stadiums? Can they host high-level competitions?
“That’s the real issue. Government must ensure our stadiums meet acceptable standards before focusing on renaming,” he said.
