Odegbami Pays Tribute to 1980 AFCON Heroes, 46 Years On

Nigerian football legend Segun Odegbami has paid tribute to his departed teammates from the historic 1980 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory, marking 46 years since the Green Eagles lifted the trophy on home soil.

In a heartfelt post on social media, Odegbami reflected on the significance of March 22, 1980, when Nigeria defeated Algeria 3–0 in Lagos to win its first continental title.

He described the final as a unifying moment for the nation, just a decade after the end of the Civil War.

‘On that day, through the effort of some warriors clad in the Green and White, Nigerians experienced the clearest evidence of the power of sport to bring people together bound by a common cause,’ he wrote.

Odegbami recalled how the team, made up of players from diverse ethnic backgrounds, demonstrated unity and resilience. He noted that several of those ‘warriors’ have since passed away, including Christian Chukwu, Mudashiru Lawal, Tunde Bamidele, Best Ogedegbe, Okey Isima, Henry Nwosu, Martins Eyo, Moses Effiong, and Charles Bassey.

‘Today, I remember my friends very fondly. I wish them perfect peace as they continue to rest with the Creator of our Universe,’ Odegbami added, honoring their legacy and the memories of Nigeria’s first AFCON triumph.

The 1980 victory remains a milestone in Nigerian football history, symbolizing both sporting excellence and national unity.