Ex-Super Eagles Midfielder Henry Nwosu Dies at 62

By Tgnews Reporter

Former Super Eagles midfielder Henry Nwosu has passed away at the age of 62 after a brief but intense battle with illness.

The sad news was announced early Saturday morning by his former teammate and 1980 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner, Segun Odegbami, via his social media platforms.

Odegbami wrote: “Henry Nwosu passes on! After five days in hospital battling for his life, the one I call ‘Youngest Millionaire’ passed on at 4:00 am this morning at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos, where he had been in intensive care since Wednesday. 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, born in Imo State and the youngest member of Nigeria’s triumphant 1980 AFCON squad, played a key role in the Green Eagles’ historic victory on home soil the nation’s first continental title.

Known for his exceptional vision, creativity, and technical skills on the field, he was a standout midfielder in Nigerian domestic football, featuring for clubs like New Nigerian Bank (NNB), ACB, and Iwuanyanwu Nationale.

After retiring from playing, Nwosu stayed involved in football as a coach and mentor, including serving as an assistant coach for the Super Eagles during the 2002 FIFA World Cup under Adegboye Onigbinde and later with Samson Siasia at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

His passing comes just five days after the death of Onigbinde, the former Super Eagles coach who guided the team to the 2002 World Cup, who died on March 9 at age 88. Both were significant figures in Nigerian football during the 1980s era.

Nwosu’s health struggles had been public in recent years, with reports of serious ailments requiring support from fans, former colleagues, and government officials. Despite earlier interventions, his condition deteriorated, leading to his admission at LASUTH.

The Nigerian football community mourns the loss of another legend who brought pride to the nation. Tributes have begun pouring in, remembering his contributions to the beautiful game.

May his soul rest in peace.