President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday joined millions of Nigerians at home and abroad to mourn the sudden death of former Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, just as Vice President Yemi Osinbajo said the news saddens the nation.
Both leaders said Nigeria will remember the legend who died at 54.
Buhari, who is away in London on a 10-day vacation, during which he will see a specialist for an infection in his right ear, spoke through messages posted on social media.
Nigeria today lost a great sportsman, football player, coach and citizen. #RIPKeshi
— President Buhari (@NGRPresident) June 8, 2016
According to the President, “Nigerian football will not be the same without Stephen Keshi”, whom he said “gave this country his all.”
Buhari, the message said, “commiserates with the family of the late Stephen Keshi, and with the entire country, on his untimely passing.”
Nigeria Will Remember #RIPKeshi pic.twitter.com/0s3KKr40rg
— President Buhari (@NGRPresident) June 8, 2016
In a message personally signed by him on Wednesday, Osinbajo, who is running the affair of state in the absence of President Buhari, said as captain and coach of the national football team, Keshi’s service, dedication and achievements, including lifting the African Nations Cup both as a player and then as a coach, remain a great testament to the value of hard work.
“His personal triumphs and pursuits as a world-class professional footballer inspired many young talented sportsmen and women around Africa to strive for excellence. His great work with our youth and senior national teams unified our country and brought joy to many compatriots. His feats within and outside the country, are a rich legacy, which will continue to live on in our hearts.
“On behalf of the people and Government of Nigeria, I commiserate with the family of Mr. Stephen Keshi on this tragic loss. Our thoughts are with his children at this time of sadness especially so soon after the loss of their mother. We send our deepest condolences to them and also to the countless friends he made in a lifetime of service.
“We pray that God grants the family the fortitude to bear the loss.”
