Former Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi has passed away in Benin City at the age of 54, and reports have indicated that he suffered a heart attack prior to his death.<br /><br />The retired Nigeria international had planned to fly back to the United States, where he had a home, today.<br /><br />The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the death of the iconic central defender via social media, stating : &ldquo;Former Nigeria Captain and Coach, Stephen Keshi, is dead. Reports say the legend died in the early hours of Wednesday, RIP Big Boss.&rdquo; <br /><br />Super Eagles striker Bright Dike added : &ldquo;It saddens me greatly to hear Stephen Keshi is no longer with us. The Nigeria coach that made many of my dreams come true. Rip friend.&rdquo;<br /><br />Zambia legend Kalusha Bwalya commented : &ldquo;Woke up to the sad news of the passing of my brother Stephen Keshi. I can&rsquo;t believe it. I am in shock . Football legend. RIP.&rdquo;<br /><br />Stephen Keshi was captain of the Super Eagles squad that won the 1994 African Cup of Nations and managed Nigeria, Togo and Mali.<br /><br />Ifeanyi Emmanuel <br /><br />Photo Credit : naijabams.com