The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), yesterday mourned the death of the mother of Samuel Chukwueze few days after the passing of the father of Nigeria captain Wilfred Ndidi.
Mrs Sarah Chukwueze died in the early hours of yesterday, 29th January 2026.
The announcement of Mrs Sarah Chukwueze’s passing was made by Samuel’s sister, Princess Chukwueze, and his brother, David, on their respective social media platforms in the morning of yesterday, stating that the matriarch of the family had died after a brief illness.
A distraught General Secretary of the NFF, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said: “We are aware that Mrs Sarah Chukwueze was a vital and supportive presence in the lives of her children, including our international player, Samuel Chukwueze. Samuel has always, at every opportunity, acknowledged his mother’s influence on his professional development. We are sad at her departure, coming only a few days after we had to mourn the sudden passing of the father of Super Eagles’ captain, Wilfred Ndidi.
“We pray that God will grant her eternal rest, and also grant those she has left behind, including Samuel and his siblings, the fortitude to bear the big loss.
“The National Sports Commission is deeply saddened by the confirmed passing of Mrs Sarah Chukwueze, mother of Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze,” the statement read.
It noted that the death had been publicly announced by members of the Chukwueze family.
“The Commission has been informed that Mrs Chukwueze passed away following a brief illness, a loss that has been publicly shared by members of the Chukwueze family,” it added.
The NSC extended its condolences to the footballer and his family, describing the late Mrs Chukwueze as a strong support figure in her son’s career.
“Across the landscape of Nigerian sport, the role of family remains central to the character and resilience shown by many of our elite athletes. Mrs Chukwueze’s influence on the personal journey of her son and her support for his professional pursuit are acknowledged and respected by the sports community,” the Commission stated.
It added that it stood in solidarity with the Super Eagles winger during the period of mourning.
“The National Sports Commission stands in solidarity with Samuel Chukwueze and offers support to him and his family at this difficult time,” the statement said.