Sanwo-Olu mourns: ‘Henry Nwosu’s death is Irreparable loss to Nigeria’

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has paid tribute to former Green Eagles midfielder Henry Nwosu, describing his passing as an “irreparable loss” to the nation and celebrating the late football icon’s role in securing Nigeria’s first continental title.

Nwosu, the youngest member of the legendary 1980 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) winning squad, died on Saturday at the age of 62, sending shockwaves through the Nigerian football community.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu extended heartfelt condolences to the Nwosu family, the Imo State Government, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

“The death of Henry Nwosu is a painful loss to the country, particularly football lovers, because we lost a patriot, legend and national icon,” Sanwo-Olu said.

“He made Nigeria proud by winning the African Nations Cup in 1980 for the country.”

The Governor recalled Nwosu’s pivotal role in the Green Eagles’ historic triumph on home soil, a victory that remains etched in the annals of Nigerian sports history as the nation’s first AFCON championship.

“Henry Nwosu served the nation passionately and made the country proud by working tirelessly with other members of the Green Eagles to secure Nigeria’s first continental title on home soil,” the Governor added.

Sanwo-Olu lauded the late midfielder’s exceptional talent, describing him as a creative and technically gifted player who left an indelible mark on both the national team and domestic football.

“He was the youngest member of the 1980 AFCON squad, who was widely celebrated for his role in Nigeria’s triumph at the Africa Cup of Nations. He was a talented midfielder known for his creativity and technical ability,” he said.

Beyond his playing days, the Governor noted Nwosu’s continued passion for the game and his positive impact as a coach and prominent figure in Nigerian football.

“Henry Nwosu is passionate about sports, particularly football. He made positive impacts while playing for the national team and later became a prominent figure in Nigerian domestic football,” Sanwo-Olu stated.

The Governor prayed for the eternal repose of the deceased and urged God to grant the family, friends, Imo State Government, and the wider football community the fortitude to bear the loss.

“Henry Nwosu would be sorely missed. I pray for eternal peace for the deceased, and God will grant the family, friends, Imo State Government and football fans the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” he concluded.

Nwosu, who earned 60 caps for Nigeria between 1980 and 1991, also represented the nation at the 1980 Moscow Olympics and later served as assistant coach at the 2002 FIFA World Cup and the Beijing 2008 Olympics, where Nigeria clinched silver.