The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has denied allegations that it owed former Super Eagles captain and coach, Christian Chukwu, the sum of $128,000 prior to his passing.
In response to circulating social media claims, NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, clarified on Monday that the federation has no records indicating any outstanding payments due to Chukwu, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 74.
A statement released via the NFF’s official X (formerly Twitter) account quoted Sanusi, saying, “The NFF has no documented evidence of any financial obligation to Christian Chukwu. During Mr. Amaju Pinnick’s first tenure as NFF President, a committee was formed specifically to review claims from coaches who were reportedly owed money, even from earlier administrations.
”Sanusi added that Chukwu was officially employed by the federation from 2002 to 2005, until his dismissal following a 1-1 draw with Angola during a World Cup qualifier in Kano.
“There is absolutely no record within the NFF indicating he was owed,” he stated.He also called on anyone with credible documents proving the federation owes a former coach to step forward.
“As a responsible and transparent body, we are committed to settling any verified debts,” Sanusi assured.Christian Chukwu, affectionately nicknamed ‘Chairman’ due to his strong leadership on the field, led Nigeria to its first African Cup of Nations title in 1980 and later managed the national team.
He passed away on April 12, 2025, at the age of 74.
