NIGERIA: President Tinubu Mourns Legendary Super Eagles Midfielder Henry Nwosu

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep condolences to the family, friends, and the entire Nigerian football community following the passing of Henry Onyemanze Nwosu, one of the country’s most celebrated midfield maestros.

The 62-year-old former Super Eagles star died on Saturday.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the late Nwosu as an exceptionally skilled footballer whose artistry on the pitch remains legendary.

The President recalled Nwosu’s remarkable debut as a 17-year-old in the Green Eagles squad that lifted the Africa Cup of Nations trophy on home soil in 1980, marking one of the defining moments in Nigerian football history.

President Tinubu further acknowledged Nwosu’s over-a-decade-long dedication to the national team, during which he featured prominently in subsequent Africa Cup of Nations tournaments in 1982, 1984, and 1988. He also recognised the late midfielder’s enduring contributions to the growth and development of sports in Nigeria.

“Nigerians will always remember the late playmaker for the pride and joy he brought to the nation and for inspiring many compatriots to greater accomplishments,” the statement read.

The President prayed for the peaceful repose of Henry Nwosu’s soul and asked God to grant his family, loved ones, and the football fraternity the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Henry Nwosu’s death has drawn widespread tributes from former teammates, football administrators, fans, and sports personalities across the country, all of whom have hailed him as one of Nigeria’s finest-ever midfield talents whose legacy will continue to inspire fu

ture generations.