President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Super Eagles midfielder, Henry Onyemanze Nwosu, who died on Saturday at the age of 62.
In a condolence message released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the late football icon as an exceptionally talented player whose artistry and creativity on the field earned him a place in Nigeria’s football history.
President Tinubu recalled Nwosu’s early brilliance in the national team, noting that the midfielder rose to prominence as a teenager when he featured in the then Green Eagles squad that won the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations Nigeria’s first-ever continental football title.
The President said the late playmaker demonstrated extraordinary skill and maturity during the tournament, becoming one of the youngest players to contribute to Nigeria’s historic triumph.
“President Tinubu joins the Nigerian football community in mourning the exceptionally skilled Nwosu, whose football artistry remains the stuff of legends,” the statement said.
Tinubu also acknowledged Nwosu’s over a decade of service to the country as a member of the national football team, noting that he represented Nigeria in several continental competitions including the Africa Cup of Nations tournaments of 1982, 1984 and 1988.
The President further commended the former international’s contributions to sports development after his playing career, describing him as a source of inspiration to younger generations of Nigerian footballers.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
President Tinubu prayed for the repose of Nwosu’s soul and asked God to grant comfort to his family, friends, and the entire Nigerian football community mourning the loss of one of the country’s most celebrated midfielders.