Ex-International and member of Super Eagles 2002 World Cup team, Justice Christopher, has dead at 40.
Christopher died after he slumped in his hotel in Gwolshe, off Tudunwada Ring Road, Jos, Plateau State, on Wednesday.
The defensive midfielder was said to have died with no sign of sickness or illness. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the country’s football governing body, confirmed his death.
Christopher played for several clubs including Katsina United, Sharks F.C., Bendel Insurance, Antwerp (Belgium), Levski Sofia (Bulgaria), Trelleborgs FF (Sweden), Alania Vladikavkaz (Russia) and Herfølge Boldklub (Denmark).
Christopher captained the Nigeria U-20 national team, the Flying Eagles, to the 2001 Africa Youth Championship in Egypt. The team was coached by the late Stephen Keshi.
He had made his debut for the Super Eagles in the same year during 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and racked up a total of 11 caps for the Super Eagles, which include an Africa Cup of Nations Appearance and a World Cup appearance, all in 2002.
The midfielder announced his retirement after the end of the season 2006–07 season.
Christopher played professional football in Nigeria and abroad before his retirement at Nassarawa United.
NFF tweeted its confirmation: “We are devastated to hear of the sudden passing away of former @NGSuperEagles midfielder Justice Christopher early on Wednesday morning.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and football community in Nigeria. May his soul Rest In Peace.”