The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the passing of former Green Eagles midfielder and youngest member of the 1980 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) squad, Henry Nwosu, as a great loss to the country.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, mourned the passing of Nwosu, who died at age 62.

The Governor also extended his heartfelt condolences to the Nwosu family, the Imo State Government and the Nigerian Football Federation on the passing of the former midfielder.

He said: "The death of Henry Nwosu is a painful loss to the country, particularly football lovers, because we lost a patriot, legend and national icon. He made Nigeria proud by winning the African Nations Cup in 1980 for the country.

“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 on home soil.

“He was the youngest member of the 1980 AFCON squad, who was widely celebrated for his role in Nigeria’s triumph at the Africa Cup of Nations. He was a talented midfielder known for his creativity and technical ability.

“Henry Nwosu is passionate about sports, particularly football. He made positive impacts while playing for the national team and later became a prominent figure in Nigerian domestic football.

“Henry Nwosu would be sorely missed. I pray for eternal peace for the deceased, and God will grant the family, friends, Imo State Government and football fans the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”