Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Victoria Island, Lagos, will host a solemn yet grand celebration of life as five of Nigeria’s revered sports legends are honoured at a ‘Night of Tributes’ ceremony tonight, Monday, July 28, 2025.
Sponsored by Air Peace, the commemorative event promises to be an evening of remembrance, reflection, and national pride.
Held at the newly commissioned NIIA Sports Diplomacy Wall of Fame, the night will pay homage to the remarkable lives and legacies of Christian Chukwu (MFR, OLY), Peter Rufai (MON), Charles Bassey (MON), Moses Effiong (MON), and Obisia Nwakpa (OLY).
The gathering is expected to attract family members, sports dignitaries, fans, and notable gospel musicians.
The programme, taking place inside the Main Auditorium of the NIIA, will begin promptly at 6:00 pm and conclude by 9:00 pm. Attendees are advised to arrive and be seated by 5:30 pm, as space is limited and entry will close once capacity is reached.
Music and Prayers to Uplift the Spirit
A lineup of acclaimed gospel artistes – Yinka Davies, Faith Ifunaya, and Dancia Ngozi, will provide spiritual and soul-stirring performances to underscore the atmosphere of reverence.
Adding to the sacred tone of the evening, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, founder of Trinity House, Lagos, will lead prayers for the departed souls.
The event will unfold in five tribute segments, each honouring one of the departed heroes. Select speakers will read pre-approved tributes lasting no more than three minutes in the following order:
1. Moses Effiong (MON)
2. Charles Bassey (MON)
3. Obisia Nwakpa
4. Peter Rufai (MON)
5. Christian Chukwu (MFR, OLY)
A designated family representative will offer concluding remarks on behalf of all the bereaved families.
A Ceremony Crafted With Dignity and Purpose
According to Air Peace Ambassador and former Nigerian international, Dr. Olusegun Odegbami (MON, OLY), the evening has been meticulously planned to honour the departed legends with grace and respect.
The ceremony will be broadcast live via radio and online streams, with a full recording set for future television airing.
Popular sports broadcaster, Deji Omotoyinbo, will serve as Master of Ceremony, ensuring a seamless flow of tributes throughout the evening.
Attendance and Access
Entry to the event is free, but strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserved seating has been set aside for VIP guests, three family representatives per honouree, and select individuals from the Nigerian sports community.
A Landmark Tribute at a Historic Venue
The event marks the first major occasion to be held at the NIIA Sports Diplomacy Wall of Fame, a monument sponsored by Air Peace that celebrates the lasting contributions of Nigerian sports heroes to national cohesion and international recognition.
In the words of Dr. Odegbami, “They start their return journey Home to the Creator, befittingly… having enjoyed the grace of life freely gifted by the Creator, and being exalted amongst humans to the status of heroes in their particular fields.”
Tonight’s ‘Night of Tributes’ will not only commemorate the lives of five exceptional athletes but also set a precedent for how Nigeria honours its champions, ensuring their legacies live on in the hearts of future generations.
