Stephen Keshi, one of African football’s most recognisable figures, died on June 8, 2016, aged 54 (AFP Photo/Alexander Joe)
ABUJA, Nigeria, June 8 – Tributes were paid on Wednesday to former Nigeria player and coach Stephen Keshi, who died of a suspected heart attack.
“Nigeria today lost a great sportsman, football player, coach and citizen. He gave his country his all.”
– Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s President
“A jewel.”
– Confederation of African Football boss Issa Hayatou
“This is devastating. We have lost a superhero.”
– Amaju Pinnick, president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF)
“The football family has lost a great member.”
– Fatma Samoura, FIFA secretary-general
“A great man and a noble spirit… a shining example of dedication to football and to footballers.”
– Ghana Football Federation president Kwesi Nyantakyi
“News of #StephenKeshi’s death is shocking! It’s a very sad day for #African soccer. #Keshi was a shining star, as player & manager.”
– African Union head Dlamini Zuma
“Horrible news & Sad day as Our legendary Captain & brother Stephen Keshi dies. May his blessed soul rest in peace. We lost an iconic Hero 2day.”
– Keshi’s Nigeria team-mate and former national team coach Sunday Oliseh
“A football legend has gone. RIP.”
– Manchester City and Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure
“I am too shocked for words. Stephen Keshi is gone #RIPKeshi #RIPBigBoss. You opened the door for all of us.”
– Former Nigeria captain Joseph Yobo
“Our captain, our coach, our leader, our hero, our legend. I don’t know what to say but thanks for all. RIP THE BIG BOSS.”
– Former Arsenal and Nigeria striker Nwankwo Kanu
“Keshi was such an admirable and dedicated man who did Nigeria proud with his talent in the game of football.”
– Nigeria’s former vice-president Atiku Abubakar
