Green Eagles star of 1980 passes away at 62.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was plunged into grief on Saturday following the death of Henry Nwosu, one of the nation’s football icons. The former midfield maestro reportedly died in a Lagos hospital at the age of 62.
Nwosu, celebrated as one of the finest left-sided midfielders of his era, was the youngest member of Nigeria’s 1980 AFCON-winning Green Eagles squad at just 17. He also featured in the 1984 and 1988 finals, leaving unforgettable marks on the national team.
NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi described the loss as “painful” and urged prayers for Nwosu’s family, calling him a “key figure in Nigeria’s football history.” His legacy includes the iconic goal against Guinea in a 1981 World Cup qualifier that helped Nigeria reach the final qualifying round against Algeria.
At club level, Nwosu starred for New Nigerian Bank FC and ACB FC, and later had a stint in Côte d’Ivoire, dazzling fans with his creativity and vision. After retiring, he nurtured the next generation as a coach in domestic football.
His passing comes just days after the death of former NFF Technical Director Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, marking a somber period for Nigerian football. Nwosu’s death also brings to nine the number of surviving members from the legendary 1980 squad who have now passed.
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