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Nigeria’s football community plunged into mourning on Saturday following the death of former Super Eagles midfielder Henry Nwosu. The 62 year old died in the early hours of Saturday at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital in Idi-Araba, Lagos. His death came barely one week after the passing of former national coach Adegboye Onigbinde.
Announcement of Death
Segun Odegbami, former teammate and 1980 Africa Cup of Nations winner, announced the news through his social media platforms. Odegbami stated that Nwosu died at about 4:00 a.m. after spending five days in hospital battling for his life.
“Henry Nwosu passes on! After five days in hospital battling for his life, the one I call ‘Youngest Millionaire’ passed on at 4:00 a.m. this morning at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos, where he had been in intensive care since Wednesday,” Odegbami wrote. “It is with deep pain in my heart that I have to be the conveyor of the news of the death of Henry Nwosu MON. May he rest peacefully with our Creator in Heaven.”
Nwosu was admitted to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital on Wednesday, March 11, where he received intensive medical care until his death. Medical personnel at the facility attended to the former midfielder during his final days.
Football Career
Nwosu was born in Imo State and rose to prominence as a gifted midfielder known for his vision, creativity, and technical skill. He was the youngest member of Nigeria’s victorious squad at the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations, where the then Green Eagles secured the country’s first continental title on home soil. His performances during the tournament and in subsequent international appearances established him as one of the most exciting midfielders of his generation.
Beyond his international career, Nwosu was also a prominent figure in Nigerian domestic football, where he earned admiration for his intelligence on the ball and leadership on the field.
Post Playing Career
After retiring from active football, the former international remained deeply involved in the game. He worked as a coach and mentor to younger players while contributing to grassroots development across the country.
Official Condolences
President Bola Tinubu condoled with the family of the late midfielder. The Nigeria Football Federation and the National Sports Commission also described Nwosu as a gifted legend and pillar of Nigerian football history.
