Stephen Okechukwu Keshi (1962-2016), nicknamed "Big Boss," was a Nigerian football icon who excelled as both player and coach. Born in Azare, Bauchi State, Keshi played as a defender for clubs in Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Belgium, and France. He captained Nigeria's Super Eagles to their first Africa Cup of Nations victory in 1994 in Tunisia—a historic achievement. As coach, Keshi led Nigeria to AFCON 2013 triumph, becoming only the second person to win AFCON as both player and coach. His tough-love coaching style and tactical acumen earned respect. Keshi qualified Nigeria for the 2014 World Cup. His sudden death in 2016 at age 54 shocked Nigerian football. Tributes poured in from across Africa. Stephen Keshi's legacy is eternal—a true football soldier who gave everything for Nigerian football.


BIG BOSS LEGEND:
Stephen Keshi captained Nigeria’s Super Eagles with commanding presence, marshalling defence to AFCON 1994 glory and leading a golden generation that qualified for the nation’s first World Cup.

COACHING PIONEER:
He became one of only two men to win AFCON as player and coach, lifting the trophy in 2013 with a squad that blended home-based talents like Sunday Mba with experienced internationals. He guided Togo to its first-ever World Cup qualification (2006) and managed Mali’s national team.

TACTICAL LEADERSHIP:
Keshi emphasised discipline, adaptive formations, and player trust. He empowered assistants, embraced sports psychology, and insisted on merit-based selection, setting new standards for African coaching professionalism.

LEGACY PROJECTS:
Posthumously, the Stephen Keshi Football and Vocational Training Centre in Benin City nurtures youth in sports and the creative economy. Annual lectures and tournaments honour his commitment to excellence.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 31 January 1962 in Azare, Bauchi State; died 7 June 2016 in Benin City.
- Clubs played: New Nigeria Bank, Stade d’Abidjan, Lokeren, Anderlecht, Strasbourg, Sacramento Scorpions.
- Nickname: “Big Boss” for authoritative leadership style.
- Honours: CAF Coach of the Year (2013), NFF Merit Award, national honours MON and CON.