The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced the death of Charles Bassey, a member of the legendary Green Eagles team that won Nigeria’s inaugural Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980.Bassey passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the age of 71, after battling a prolonged illness.
A former forward from Eket in Akwa Ibom State, Bassey died in his hometown just hours after the death of the team’s celebrated captain, Christian Chukwu, was confirmed in Enugu, marking a somber day for Nigerian football.
The NFF expressed its sorrow over Bassey’s passing, honoring his contributions to the sport as both a player and coach.
This has been a day of deep loss, and both the NFF and the entire Nigerian football community are heartbroken. We mourn ‘Chairman’ Chukwu earlier today; now we must also grieve for Charles Bassey. May God grant them eternal peace,” said NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi.Charles Bassey was a key figure in the 22-man Green Eagles squad that famously triumphed over Algeria 3-0 at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, on March 22, 1980, securing Nigeria’s first AFCON championship.Following his playing career, Bassey transitioned to coaching, leading several clubs throughout the country, including Wikki Tourists of Bauchi, Calabar Rovers, BCC Lions of Gboko, Flash Flamingoes of Benin, and his local team, Mobil Pegasus.With Bassey’s passing, the number of deceased members from the 1980 AFCON-winning squad has now reached nine.
Those who have previously passed include goalkeepers Best Ogedegbe and Moses Effiong; defenders Christian Chukwu, Okechukwu Isima, and Tunde Bamidele; midfielders Aloysius Atugbu and Mudashiru Lawal; and striker Martins Eyo.
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