Lagos: Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and scores of Nigerian sports enthusiasts on Monday paid glowing tributes to late national sports legends at a commemorative event.
The ‘Night of Tributes’ was held in honour of four sportsmen who passed away in the first half of 2025.
The celebrated legends include Moses Effiong, MON (born October 4, 1959 – died January 26, 2025), a former Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1980 AFCON winner in Lagos.
Charles Bassey, MON (June 2, 1954 – April 12, 2025), also played in the victorious 1980 AFCON squad.
Christian Chukwu (January 24, 1951 – April 12, 2025) captained the Super Eagles to the 1980 African Cup of Nations title.
Obisia Nwakpa (May 19, 1950 – June 3, 2025), famously known as “Golden Gloves,” was a veteran boxer and Olympic competitor in the Lightweight division.
Peter Rufai (Dodo Mayana, born August 24, 1963 – died July 3, 2025) was the goalkeeper of the Super Eagles during the 1994 AFCON and Nigeria’s first FIFA World Cup appearance.
The event was held at the National Institute for International Affairs (NIIA) on Victoria Island, Lagos.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by Lekan Fatodu, the Director-General of LSSC, praised the athletes’ contributions to Nigeria’s sports history.
He said their sacrifices and achievements would forever remain etched in the hearts of Nigerians.
We celebrate these athletes who inspired our nation through their performances in sports, which continue to unite Nigerians.
“Chukwu’s legacy reflects commitment, talent and passion for football, inspiring countless generations of Nigerian athletes,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu described Peter Rufai as a cultural icon and first-choice goalkeeper at the 1994 and 1998 World Cups.
Rufai showed exceptional skill and composure. He was instrumental to Nigeria’s victory at the 1994 African Cup of Nations.
“His on-field brilliance and leadership made him beloved nationwide and earned him the nickname ‘Dodo Mayana’.
“His legacy goes beyond sport. He symbolised perseverance and inspired many aspiring Nigerian footballers,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He continued: “Charles Bassey was part of the legendary 1980 Green Eagles that gave Nigeria its first AFCON title.
“His contribution in the final against Algeria at the National Stadium marked a defining moment in Nigerian football history.
“Following retirement, Bassey enriched the game further by coaching various domestic clubs in Nigeria.
“Moses Effiong played a key role as goalkeeper during Nigeria’s victorious 1980 AFCON campaign.
“Effiong’s dedication and performance helped Nigeria reach the pinnacle of African football.”
On Obisia Nwakpa, Sanwo-Olu stated that the boxer left a profound impact on Nigerian boxing, both in and out of the ring.
“Known as ‘Golden Gloves,’ Nwakpa was a fierce competitor and served later as a national coach.
“Nwakpa dominated the Lightweight category in the 1970s and ’90s, winning African and Commonwealth titles.
“He also represented Nigeria at the 1976 Olympics and the 1973 All-Africa Games in Lagos.
“Nwakpa’s professional career was stellar, and off the ring, he mentored upcoming talents and served as head coach.
“He led Nigeria’s boxing team to the 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Olympics.
“He launched grassroots initiatives like the GOtv Boxing Night to groom future boxing champions.
“He was admired for his humility and integrity. His legacy will forever live on in Nigerian boxing.
“As we honour these icons, we also recognise their enduring impact on Nigerian sports and the inspiration they leave behind.
“Their achievements will keep motivating young athletes to strive for greatness,” the governor said..
Air Peace CEO, Allen Onyema, also paid heartfelt tributes to the fallen sports heroes.
Onyema urged the nation to honour athletes during their lifetimes to encourage longevity and recognition.
He said he had personally rewarded some Nigerian athletes who represented the country at major global tournaments.
He recalled that Nigerian athletes were denied participation at the 1976 Montreal Olympics due to Nigeria’s boycott; now, they enjoy recognition.
“Air Peace has granted these athletes’ families lifetime business class tickets for domestic and international travel,” he said.
Pastor Ituah Ighodalo of Trinity House delivered a short sermon urging Nigeria to celebrate its legends while they are alive.
He described athletes as national ambassadors deserving of honour and public appreciation.
George Aluo of the Nigeria Football Federation affirmed that the players’ contributions were deeply acknowledged.
Segun Odegbami, who initiated the event, expressed fulfilment over the successful staging of the Night of Tributes.
Other speakers included the President of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, Rafiu Ladipo, as well as the families of the deceased icons.
The event featured gospel music, emotional tributes, prayers, and performances by Yinka Davies and other members of the sports community.
