Legendary Nigerian Sports Icons Honoured as “Dimmed Stars Shine Again” at Emotional Lagos Tribute

The Nigerian sporting fraternity converged in Lagos on Monday, July 28, 2025, for a poignant “Night of Tributes,” commemorating five departed national heroes whose legacies continue to inspire. The event, aptly themed “When Dimmed Stars Shone Again,” celebrated the enduring contributions of football giants Christian Chukwu, Peter Rufai, Charles Bassey, Moses Effiong, and boxing legend Obisia Nwakpa, all of whom passed away earlier this year.

Organized by Air Peace airline in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and championed by former Super Eagles captain Dr. Segun Odegbami, the solemn ceremony took place at the main auditorium of the NIIA in Victoria Island. It drew a dignified congregation of bereaved families, friends, sports officials, and enthusiasts from all walks of life.

The evening was dedicated to reflecting on the illustrious careers and impactful lives of the five icons. Christian Chukwu (MFR, OLY), revered as “Chairman,” was eulogized as arguably the greatest central defender Nigeria has ever produced, a leader who captained every team he played for, including the victorious 1980 Green Eagles AFCON squad. Peter Rufai (MON), famously known as “Dodo Mayana,” was remembered for his heroic goalkeeping for the Super Eagles in the 1994 AFCON and Nigeria’s debut at the FIFA World Cup. Charles Bassey (MON) and Moses Effiong (MON) were also celebrated for their integral roles in the triumphant 1980 AFCON team. In the realm of boxing, Obisia Nwakpa (OLY), the “Golden Gloves,” was honoured for his African and Commonwealth titles and his Olympic presence in the Lightweight division.

Speakers, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (represented by Lekan Fatodu, Director General of Lagos State Sports Commission), Air Peace Chairman Dr. Allen Onyema, former NFA Vice Chairman Tony Nnachetta, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, and several former teammates like Sylvanus Okpala, poured out heartfelt tributes, sharing emotional memories and vivid throwbacks that brought the legends’ exploits back to life. Pastor Ighodalo, who set a spiritual tone for the evening, emphasized that these men were not just sportsmen but national heroes deserving of eternal honour.

Dr. Segun Odegbami, a key initiator of the event, expressed fulfillment at the success of the night, while NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau praised the efforts to honour the departed legends. Both leaders, along with Dr. Allen Onyema, called for institutional frameworks to ensure living legends are also adequately recognized and supported.

The night featured soul-stirring gospel music performances by artistes like Yinka Davies, and included poignant moments where family members, such as Vivian Bassey (daughter of Charles Bassey) and Adaora Ndibe Chukwu (daughter of Christian Chukwu), spoke about their fathers’ legacies.

The “Night of Tributes” served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and achievements of these sports icons, aiming not only to immortalize their memories but also to inspire future generations to strive for greatness and for the nation to better appreciate its heroes, both living and departed.