Veteran Super Eagles Legend Charles Bassey Passes Away at 71

The Nigerian football community has been plunged into mourning yet again, following the death of Charles Bassey, a celebrated member of the iconic 1980 Green Eagles squad that delivered Nigeria’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title. Bassey, aged 71, reportedly died on Saturday in his hometown of Eket, Akwa Ibom State, after a prolonged illness.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the sad news on Monday through a statement signed by its General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi. According to Punch, the news of Bassey’s passing came just hours after the death of Christian Chukwu, the former captain of the same 1980 AFCON-winning squad, who passed away in Enugu on the same day.

Describing the moment as a “double tragedy,” the NFF expressed deep sorrow over losing two legendary figures in such quick succession, a sentiment echoed by fans and stakeholders in the Nigerian football world.

Charles Bassey played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s historic 3-0 victory over Algeria on March 22, 1980, at the National Stadium in Lagos, helping the country lift its first AFCON trophy. That legendary squad—then called the Green Eagles—etched its name permanently in the annals of Nigerian sports history.

After hanging up his boots, Bassey transitioned into coaching, taking his passion for the game to several Nigerian clubs, including Calabar Rovers, Mobil Pegasus (based in Eket), BCC Lions of Gboko, Flash Flamingoes of Benin, Akwa United, and Wikki Tourists of Bauchi. His influence extended beyond the pitch, contributing significantly to the growth and nurturing of young talent in the country.

With Bassey’s death, the number of deceased players from the 1980 AFCON squad rises to nine. Other fallen heroes include Best Ogedegbe and Moses Effiong (goalkeepers), Christian Chukwu, Okechukwu Isima, and Tunde Bamidele (defenders), Aloysius Atuegbu and Mudashiru Lawal (midfielders), and Martins Eyo (forward).

Charles Bassey’s death is seen not just as the loss of a footballer but as the passing of a national icon whose legacy continues to inspire generations. As tributes pour in, his memory will live on as part of Nigeria’s golden era in football.