Nigerian football has been thrown into mourning once again following the death of Mrs Sarah Chukwueze, the mother of Super Eagles and Fulham FC star, Samuel Chukwueze.
The sad news emerged in the early hours of Thursday, 29 January 2026, and was first announced by members of the Chukwueze family on social media. Samuel’s brother, David Chukwueze, shared a series of emotional messages on his Instagram story as he struggled to come to terms with the loss. In one post, he wrote, “Can’t even post your picture to say RIP Mum,” while other messages read, “My forever love just left me without saying goodbye” and “You didn’t even carry your grandchild.”
Samuel’s sister, Princess Chukwueze, also confirmed the passing, stating that their mother died after a brief illness. The heartbreaking news has drawn an outpouring of sympathy from the Nigerian football community and fans across the country.
Chukwueze, who was part of the Super Eagles squad that finished third at the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, is yet to make a public statement on the loss. However, the close bond he shared with his mother has always been evident, as he frequently credited her for her prayers, support, and influence on his football journey.
Reacting to the development, the General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Dr Mohammed Sanusi, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. He described Mrs Sarah Chukwueze as a strong and supportive figure in the lives of her children, noting that Samuel had always acknowledged his mother’s role in shaping his career.
“We are deeply saddened by her passing,” Sanusi said. “Mrs Sarah Chukwueze was a vital presence in the life of our international player, Samuel Chukwueze. This loss is particularly painful, coming just days after Nigerian football mourned the sudden death of the father of Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi. We pray that God grants her eternal rest and gives Samuel, his siblings, and the entire family the strength to bear this great loss.”
The passing of Mrs Chukwueze comes barely a week after Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi lost his father in a tragic car accident, compounding a difficult period for the national team and Nigerian football at large.
As tributes continue to pour in, fans, teammates, and officials have united in offering prayers and condolences to Samuel Chukwueze and his family during this painful time.