Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described the death of former Green Eagles midfielder Henry Nwosu as a major loss to Nigeria and the football community.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, the Lagos governor expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the former national team star, who died at the age of 62.

Sanwo-Olu also extended his condolences to the family of the late football icon, the Imo State Government, and the Nigeria Football Federation over the loss.

The governor noted that Nwosu’s death was particularly painful for football lovers across the country, describing him as a patriot, legend, and national icon who contributed immensely to Nigeria’s sporting history.

According to him, the late midfielder played a significant role in Nigeria’s historic triumph at the 1980 African Cup of Nations, when the national team won its first continental title on home soil.

Sanwo-Olu recalled that Nwosu was the youngest member of the victorious Green Eagles squad that secured the championship.

He praised the former midfielder for his creativity, technical ability, and passion for the game, which made him one of the standout players of his generation.

“Henry Nwosu served the nation passionately and made the country proud by working tirelessly with other members of the Green Eagles to secure Nigeria’s first continental title,” the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu added that beyond his achievements on the pitch, the former footballer remained an influential figure in Nigerian domestic football after his playing career.

He said Nwosu’s contributions to the development of the sport would remain a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s football history.

The governor further stated that the late football legend would be greatly missed by fans, colleagues, and the entire sporting community.

Sanwo-Olu prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed and asked God to grant his family, friends, and football lovers the strength to bear the loss.