The Minister of sports, Sunday Dare has described the death of former Green Eagles goalkeeper Joseph Erico as a monumental loss to Nigeria.
In a statement, the minister bemoaned the death of another sports legend few days after the death of a former Minister of sports Malam Bala Bawa Ka’oje
“This is so unfortunate and sad. This is one death too many. This is a great loss to his family and the sporting fraternity. He was a great goalkeeper who stood out among his peers.
“He also made his mark as Assistant Super Eagles coach. My deepest condolences go to the family, friends and the football family. May God bless his soul and comfort his family.”
On their part, the Nigeria Football federation said “It is another sad day for Nigerian Football. Erico was among the very best of and also served the country with fervour and diligence as Assistant Coach of the Super Eagles between 2001 and 2002.
“He will be sorely missed. We pray that Almighty God grant him eternal rest and also grant his family and loved ones the fortitude to bear the big loss.”
Erico died yesterday in his sleep at the age of 71.
