By ALEX ENEBELI

Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has pledged to immortalise the former Nigerian footballer and coach, Christian Chukwu.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the former Enugu Rangers and Super Eagles coach died at the age of 74 on Saturday, at the Niger Foundation hospital in Enugu.

The governor, who made the pledge when he paid a condolence visit to Chukwu’s family on Thursday in Enugu, assured them that they were not standing alone.

He described the late footballer, popularly known as Chairman, as a legend who served his country unreservedly and inspired millions of youths.

Mbah said the government and people of Enugu, his home state, were thoroughly devastated by his death.

Speaking to newsmen after consoling the family and signing a condolence register, Mbah said, “We have come here to commiserate with the family and also to express our devastation.

“His death is not just a loss to the family alone; it is a loss to all of us, particularly the government and the people of Enugu State.

“As you know, our beloved brother and legend, Christian Chukwu, is a household name who inspires many young people. He represents many values when it comes to sport globally.

“We are here to assure the family that this loss is not just theirs, this is our collective loss; that we are going to be with them all through this period of grief,” he said.

He also prayed for the peaceful repose of Chukwu’s soul and for fortitude on the part of his family to bear the irreparable loss.

Accompanying the governor were the Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Mr Uchenna Ugwu and the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Mr Lloyd Ekweremadu. (NAN)