Pastor Umo Eno, Akwa Ibom State Governor, has extended his deepest condolences to the family of Late Coach Charles Bassey (MON), describing him as a national icon who contributed to the development of football in the country both as a football player and a coach.
The Former Super Eagles forward who was a member of Nigeria’s AFCON 1980 winning squad, died on April 12, 2025 in Eket at the age of 71.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the family house of the deceased in Ikot Uso Ekong in Eket local government area, Governor Eno who was represented by the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey said he received the news of the passing of the football legend with great shock, especially as it has created a huge vacuum in the nation’s football sector.
“We have lost a great man, arguably the most experienced football coach from Akwa Ibom State who traversed the length and breadth of this country. As a footballer, we can’t forget that he had the most powerful shot in the team that won the first AFCON in 1980. We will miss him,” he added.
The Governor stressed the collective nature of the grief, saying, “This is not just your personal loss, but our collective loss. We mourn with you, your family, and all the people of Eket.”
He prayed for the deceased’s soul and urged his family to preserve the good memories he left behind by continuing with his good deeds, assuring them of government’s support during the funeral ceremony.
In her response, the wife of the deceased, Mrs Glory Charles Bassey thanked the Governor for the visit and for identifying with the family. She also thanked the sports family for showing concern and standing with them during this period of grief.
Late Charles Bassey after his playing days, coached various clubs within the country, including Calabar Rovers, home-town club Mobil Pegasus, BCC Lions of Gboko, Flash Flamingoes of Benin, Akwa United and Wikki Tourists of Bauchi.
Among those who accompanied the Commissioner on the visit were the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Sports, Lady Rose Bassey, Directors in the Ministry, retired Permanent Secretary, Pastor Umo Bassey, Chairman State Football Association, Mr Samuel Umoh and members of the executive committee, Chairman State Referees Association, Elder Joseph Bassey, Chairman, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria – SWAN, Comrade Emmanuel Akpan, among other sports stakeholders in the state.
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