The 1994 Super Eagles squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia have finally been handed over the houses they were promised 31 years ago by the Federal Government.
The disclosure was made in a statement posted on the ministry’s website on Wednesday.
One of the beneficiaries, former striker Efan Ekoku, was presented with an allocation letter for a house in Abuja.
He was represented at the brief ceremony by his niece, Lisa Jenifer Nwagbogun.
The Director and Head of Department, Public Building and Housing Development, Pemi Temitope, presented the letter on behalf of the Minister of Housing and Urban Development.
Temitope described the move as part of the government’s commitment to rewarding the patriotic service of the team, which brought honour to the nation three decades ago.
Nwagbogun said, “I am deeply grateful to the Federal Government and the Ministry of Housing for fulfilling this long-standing pledge to my uncle. It is truly heartening to witness such commitment to integrity and follow-through.
“This gesture not only honours Mr. Efan Ekoku’s service but also restores faith in the value of public promises being kept.”
It will be recalled that former President Muhammadu Buhari approved the implementation of the 1994 housing pledge in 2022, 28 years after it was first made.
Housing units are being allocated to members of the team in various states, while some, like Ekoku, are receiving theirs in Abuja.
The Conclave
It’s great to see the 1994 Super Eagles heroes finally receiving the houses promised to them 31 years ago. Do you think this gesture will set a precedent for fulfilling promises to other Nigerian athletes and heroes?