Ex-Super Eagles assistant coach Joe Erico passed away at the age of 72. And the former international has been lauded for his contribution to the West African’s football development. Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari also has paid tribute to Joe Erico who died on Thursday after a brief illness.

Erico featured prominently for the senior national team at the 1976 AFCON where the West Africans finished third.

The former goalkeeper went into administration after calling time on his professional career. And he had the opportunity to serve as an assistant coach of the Super Eagles.

In a statement from Buhari’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, the President eulogized the contribution of the Super Eagles ‘legend’ to the development of Nigerian football.

“President Buhari commiserates with family, NFD over the death of Joe Erico. The President said he was saddened to learn of Erico’s death.” Read the statement.

“President Muhammadu Buhari is saddened to learn of the passing of former Nigeria senior team goalkeeper and one-time assistant coach of the Super Eagles, Joe Erico.

“Commiserating with the family of the legendary player and tactician, as well as the Nigeria Football Federation, the President avers that the nation will forever remember him for his tireless devotion to duty. Ensuring victory for Nigeria when it mattered most in football.

“President Buhari believes that Coach Erico’s guidance as a veteran would have availed much for the Nigerian football community. But it pleased his Maker to call him home at such a time.

“The President prays almighty God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest and divine comfort for family, friends, associates, and everyone who came in contact with the talented sportsman.”