The Ministry of Youth and Sports is proposing a 20-man National Committee for a State burial for the late former Super Eagles Coach Stephen Okechukwu Keshi.
The Minister, Solomon Dalung gave the hint when the children of the late coach called to officially inform and thank the federal government for the support given to the family of the football icon since his demise.
Dalung commiserated with the children who lost both parents within six months and urged them to be strong in the Lord.
“Coach Stephen Keshi will be remembered for his uncommon charisma, unrivaled leadership qualities and ability to command respect from players, peers and football enthusiasts. He was a national hero and would be given a befitting burial. In fact, Keshi belonged to the government and he will be buried by the federal government. This committee will ensure a hitch free burial and liaise between the government and the family to ensure that the best funeral is given to our hero”.
Dalung also revealed that a memo which will suggest ways of immortalizing late Stephen Keshi and Coach Shuaibu Amodu is to be presented at the Executive Council meeting soon.
Meanwhile, the proposed Committe will comprise family members, the Nigeria Football Federation, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, stakeholders including coaches, administrators, ex footballers, the media, representatives of Delta and Edo states, the Nigerian Police, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and supporters club.
The committee will ensure a smooth state burial for late Keshi which is being proposed for the weekend of July 27- 29, 2016.