Keshi to be buried on July 29

Former Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, who died on June 8, will have his funeral rites hold between July 27 and July 29, 2016, a statement from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has revealed.

After a meeting with the late coach’s family, the NFF in a statement stated that there would be a night of tribute in Abuja for the former Super Eagles coach.

He will also be laid in state before a church service and novelty football match in Benin City after which he will be laid to rest in Illah, Delta State – his hometown.

The children of late Eagles’ captain have praised the efforts of the Nigeria Football Federation, the governments of Edo and Delta States, and the global football community, since the demise of the legend on June 8.

A letter signed by Jennifer Keshi and addressed to the NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, read:

“The children of the late Stephen Keshi, Jennifer, Stephanie, Sophie, Stephen Olufemi Keshi and Stephen Keshi Jr, would like at this time to express our thanks and appreciation to the people of Nigeria, Africa, the Football community all over the world, most especially the Nigeria Football Federation, Edo and Delta State Governments, our relative, friends and well –wishers who have surrounded us with their love and care in this period of bereavement.

“We are deeply touched by the numerous calls, visits, prayers, words of encouragement and the show of willingness to be a part of the burial arrangements. Your acts of kindness and generosity have made our burden bearable. Thank you from the depths of our hearts.

“Our late dad was not only a wonderful husband to a wonderful wife, he was a soccer icon. Our mother who passed on to glory few months ago, together they were the most precious people we ever had. Their parenting and love for us knew no bound. They protected us and shielded us and prepared us for life.”