By Philomina Brando
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Sports, Kabiru Amadu, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Nigerian international, Henry Nwosu, describing the late midfielder as one of the most gifted footballers Nigeria has ever produced.
Nwosu, a member of the historic Nigeria national football team that won the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations, died in a Lagos hospital in the early hours of Saturday at the age of 62.
His passing has triggered tributes across the country’s football community, coming only days after the death of former Nigeria Football Federation Technical Director, Adegboye Onigbinde.
Reacting to the development in a statement on Sunday, Amadu said the former Super Eagles midfielder left an enduring legacy in Nigerian football through his remarkable talent and dedication to the game.
“Henry Nwosu was one of the most remarkable footballers Nigeria has produced, and his contributions to the development of the game will never be forgotten,” Amadu said.
“His vision, leadership and commitment on the pitch inspired generations of players across the country.”
The lawmaker also extended condolences to Nwosu’s family and the entire football community, noting that the country had lost one of its most respected football figures.
“This is another very sad moment for Nigerian football, especially as we are still mourning Chief Onigbinde. Nigeria will always remember the enormous contributions of Henry Nwosu both as a player and as a coach. We pray that God grants him eternal rest and gives his family the strength to bear the loss,” he added.
Nwosu was widely regarded as one of the finest left-sided midfielders of his generation. At just 17, he became the youngest member of the Nigerian squad that secured the country’s first continental title at the 1980 AFCON on home soil.
He later played key roles as Nigeria reached the finals of the 1984 and 1988 AFCON tournaments, losing both to the Cameroon national football team.
One of the defining moments of his international career came on April 25, 1981, when he scored a stunning long-range goal against the Guinea national football team in a FIFA World Cup qualifying match, helping Nigeria advance to the next round against the Algeria national football team.
At club level, Nwosu enjoyed successful spells with New Nigerian Bank FC of Benin City and ACB FC of Lagos, where he earned admiration for his creativity, dribbling ability and midfield vision.
He also played professionally in Côte d’Ivoire before retiring from active football.
After hanging up his boots, Nwosu remained involved in the game as a coach, working with several domestic clubs and contributing to the development of young talents across Nigeria.
His death marks the end of an era for one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers.