By Our Correspondent

National News – Former Henry Nwosu, a celebrated midfielder for the Nigeria national football team, has died at the age of 62 after a brief illness.

His passing was confirmed early Saturday by former teammate Segun Odegbami, who announced that the football icon died around 4:00 a.m. at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, where he had been receiving intensive medical care.

Odegbami shared the news with deep sorrow, describing Nwosu as a remarkable player whose contributions to Nigerian football remain unforgettable.

According to him, the former midfielder battled for his life in the hospital for several days before eventually passing away.

Tributes from fans, football administrators, and former teammates quickly began pouring in following the announcement.

Nwosu was widely recognised as one of Nigeria’s most talented midfielders during his playing days.

Born in Imo State, he rose to national prominence after becoming the youngest member of the squad that won the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations.

The historic tournament, hosted in Lagos, marked Nigeria’s first continental football triumph and established Nwosu as a key part of the country’s golden generation.

Known for his creativity, vision, and technical skills, Nwosu played a vital role in Nigeria’s midfield, earning admiration for his intelligent playmaking and calm presence on the pitch.

His performances during the early years of Nigerian international football helped inspire younger players and strengthened the nation’s reputation on the African football stage.

After retiring from professional football, Nwosu remained closely involved in the sport.

He devoted much of his time to coaching and mentoring upcoming players, sharing his experience and passion with the next generation of Nigerian footballers.

His dedication to the development of grassroots football earned him respect across the sporting community.

His death comes only days after Nigeria mourned another football legend, Adegboye Onigbinde, who once coached the national team and played a key role in its development during the 1980s.

Nwosu’s legacy as a pioneering midfielder and national hero will continue to inspire generations of Nigerian football fans and players.