More than 30 years after the Nigerian Super Eagles triumphed in the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations, the government has officially delivered on a historic promise—providing homes to the victorious team members.
The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development confirmed the development on Wednesday through a statement by its Director of Press and Public Relations, Badamasi Haiba. Pemi Temitope, the Director of Public Building and Housing Development, personally handed over an allocation letter to former Super Eagles striker Efan Ekoku—represented by his niece Lisa Nwagbogun—at a ceremony in Abuja.
Temitope noted that housing units were allocated to players across different states, depending on their preferences, with some receiving homes in Abuja and others in their home regions.
“This fulfilment represents our commitment to recognising patriotic contributions that have brought pride to Nigeria,” he stated. “It also reinforces the principle that national service should be acknowledged, no matter how long it takes.”
Efan Ekoku, responding through a message delivered by his niece, expressed his appreciation for the gesture. “I’m thankful to the Nigerian government and the Ministry of Housing for fulfilling this promise. It’s encouraging to see integrity and commitment to national honour.”
Although the pledge dates back to 1994, it was formally revived in 2022 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who approved the allocations as part of efforts to deliver on long-standing national obligations.
The 1994 AFCON victory remains one of the most celebrated moments in Nigerian football history, and the completion of this promise marks a rare instance of governmental follow-through on legacy commitments.
