After more than three decades, the Federal Government of Nigeria has finally fulfilled its long-standing promise to the victorious 1994 Super Eagles team by delivering housing allocations to the players.
The pledge, originally made after the team’s victory at the 1994 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Tunisia, where Nigeria defeated Zambia in the final, has now materialized. The team returned home to national celebrations and was promised a house each by the government in recognition of their achievement.
Thirty-one years later, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has formally handed over house allocation letters to the team members. One of the recipients is former striker Efan Ekoku, whose letter was presented during a modest ceremony in Abuja. Ekoku’s niece, Lisa Jenifer Nwagbogun, received the letter on his behalf.
Presenting the letter, senior housing official Pemi Temitope described the handover as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to honouring national heroes.
Nwagbogun expressed appreciation, stating: “I’m deeply thankful to the Federal Government and the Ministry of Housing for keeping this long-standing promise to my uncle. It’s truly uplifting to see such integrity in action. This not only celebrates Efan Ekoku’s contribution but also renews trust in the power of kept promises.”
The approval was given under former President Muhammadu Buhari for the implementation of the 1994 housing pledge in 2022, 28 years after it was first made.
The homes are being allocated across multiple states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Meanwhile, in a related development, former player and coach Samson Siasia has claimed that he is still owed $250,000 by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), dating back to 2016. He recounted how a friend came to the aid of the U23 team during a critical moment, sending funds to the federation after players were left stranded ahead of a crucial match.
