President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Mrs. Sarah Chukwueze, the mother of Super Eagles forward, Samuel Chukwueze. The President described the loss as painful and heartbreaking, especially coming at a time when the Nigerian football family is already mourning another recent tragedy.
The condolence message was conveyed in a statement released on Thursday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga. According to the statement, Mrs. Chukwueze passed away on Thursday, throwing her family, friends, and the football community into mourning.
President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to Samuel Chukwueze, his immediate family, and relatives, describing the death as a significant personal loss not only to the footballer but also to the nation.
“The passing of Mrs. Chukwueze, the mother of one of our bright football stars, just a few days after the passing of Super Eagles’ captain Wilfred Ndidi’s father, is deeply saddening,” the President said.
The President noted that the loss comes at a difficult time for the Super Eagles, as the team continues to deal with emotional pain following the recent death of Mr. Sunday Ndidi, the father of team captain Wilfred Ndidi, who died in a tragic road accident less than 48 hours earlier.
President Tinubu said the nation shares in the grief of the affected families and understands the emotional burden such losses place on the players, especially as they continue to represent the country at the highest level of international football.
Reflecting on the emotional impact of the twin tragedies, the President assured Samuel Chukwueze and his family of his personal support and spiritual solidarity.
“I mourn with them, and I am with them in prayers during this difficult time,” he said.
The President urged the Chukwueze family to remain strong and united, encouraging them to draw comfort from the life and legacy of their late mother. He described Mrs. Chukwueze as a woman whose impact would continue to be felt through her children and loved ones.
In his message of comfort, President Tinubu advised the family to “find solace in the memory and legacy” of the late Mrs. Chukwueze, while trusting God for strength and healing.
The President concluded his message by praying for the repose of the soul of the departed. He asked God Almighty to grant her eternal rest and to comfort the family she left behind.
The passing of Mrs. Sarah Chukwueze has drawn widespread sympathy from football fans, sports administrators, and Nigerians from all walks of life. Many have taken to social media to express support for Samuel Chukwueze, describing him as a dedicated professional who has always spoken fondly of his family.
Samuel Chukwueze is one of Nigeria’s most gifted footballers of his generation. He rose to prominence after his impressive performances at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where Nigeria emerged champions. Since then, he has gone on to represent the country at senior level and has played for top European clubs, earning praise for his speed, skill, and commitment.
Despite his success, Chukwueze has often credited his family, especially his mother, for playing a key role in his journey to the top. Friends and fans say her passing is a heavy blow to the footballer, who is known to be deeply attached to his family.
The Super Eagles have in recent days been engulfed in grief following the death of Wilfred Ndidi’s father, Mr. Sunday Ndidi, who reportedly died in a fatal road accident. The back-to-back losses have cast a shadow over the team and raised concerns about the emotional well-being of the players.
Many Nigerians have praised President Tinubu for personally reaching out to the families, describing his message as timely and compassionate. Some sports lovers say such gestures help strengthen the bond between national leaders and citizens, especially during moments of sorrow.
In Nigerian culture, the loss of a parent is considered one of life’s most painful experiences. Mothers, in particular, are often regarded as the backbone of the family, making their passing especially difficult for children, regardless of age or status.
As Samuel Chukwueze and his family mourn, Nigerians continue to send prayers and messages of comfort, hoping that the footballer will find strength in the love and support around him.
The twin tragedies within the Super Eagles camp serve as a reminder that beyond the fame, skill, and passion seen on the football pitch, players are human beings who face the same pains and losses as everyone else.
For now, the nation stands in solidarity with Samuel Chukwueze, Wilfred Ndidi, and their families, praying for comfort, strength and peace during this period of deep sorrow.
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