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NSC Chairman Urges Revival of School Football to Honour Late Henry Nwosu
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has called for the revival of school football competitions nationwide as a fitting tribute to the late Green Eagles legend, Henry Nwosu.
Dikko made the remarks while receiving members of Nwosu’s family, representatives of Imo State Concerned Sports Stakeholders, and members of the burial committee at his office inside the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
Reflecting on his relationship with the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations winner, Dikko described Nwosu as one of the most thrilling footballers of his generation.
“Henry Nwosu MON began representing the national team at a very young age. The history of school sports, particularly the Principals Cup, cannot be told without his name. At that age, he already featured for Nigeria at the 1980 AFCON. His journey is an inspiration to aspiring athletes, showing that it is possible to reach the highest level. His success validates our work at the Commission, as we continue to witness talented school athletes representing Nigeria at elite levels,” Dikko said.
He emphasized that Nwosu’s legacy should be immortalized, particularly in the realm of school sports.
“At the Federal level, in collaboration with the Imo State Government, steps should be taken to ensure his name is permanently enshrined in our school sports history. For example, a national school sports tournament could be named in his honor. This is a huge loss for the nation, and we will do everything possible to ensure his contributions are remembered,” he added.
Dikko also pledged the NSC’s support for all activities surrounding Nwosu’s burial and affirmed plans to collaborate with the Imo State Government to ensure the football icon receives a befitting tribute, in consultation with key stakeholders, including the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Earlier, Nwosu’s eldest sister, Mrs. Ijeoma Onyewuchi, expressed profound grief over her brother’s passing, describing him as the only son among four children whose absence would be deeply felt. She acknowledged his outstanding contributions to Nigerian football and appealed to the NSC to assist the family in organizing a dignified burial ceremony.
In a formal proposal to the NSC Chairman, Dr. Geoffrey Ogu, leader of the Imo State Concerned Sports Stakeholders, praised Nwosu’s discipline, dedication, and immense contributions to football in Nigeria. He urged the commission to immortalize the legend and grant him a state burial.
According to Ogu, a state burial would determine the level of honors, funding, and participation from both the Federal and Imo State Governments. He also called for adequate security, permission to drape the casket with the national flag, recitation of the national anthem, and a minute of silence to honor the late football hero.
Ogu further encouraged the Federal and Imo State Governments to establish football programs and projects in Nwosu’s name to inspire young talents to serve the nation with dedication.
Henry Nwosu passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the age of 62. His burial is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026, in his hometown of Naze, Imo State, with several commemorative activities planned.
