President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep condolences over the death of former Super Eagles midfielder Henry Onyemanze Nwosu, who passed away at the age of 62.
Nwosu, a key member of Nigeria's triumphant 1980 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) squad, died in the early hours of Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, after spending five days in intensive care.
The news was confirmed by his former teammate and 1980 AFCON winner, Segun Odegbami, who described him affectionately as the "Youngest Millionaire", a nod to his status as the youngest player in that victorious Green Eagles team.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu paid tribute to Nwosu's legendary contributions to Nigerian football.
He highlighted Nwosu's brilliance as a 17-year-old (though reports note he was around 18) in the 1980 AFCON-winning side, as well as his participation in subsequent AFCON editions in 1982, 1984, and 1988.
“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 said, praying for the repose of Nwosu’s soul and comfort for his grieving family.
Nwosu was widely celebrated for his exceptional skill, artistry, and playmaking ability in midfield. He also scored Nigeria's lone goal at the 1980 Moscow Olympics and later contributed to national team efforts as a coach and assistant, including during the 2008 Beijing Olympics silver medal campaign.
His passing comes amid mourning in Nigeria's sports community, following the recent death of former Super Eagles coach Adegboye Onigbinde, whom Nwosu had assisted.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and the Super Eagles have also joined in paying tribute to the late legend.
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