After more than three decades, the Federal Government has delivered on its long-standing promise of providing houses to the victorious 1994 Super Eagles team that won the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia.
This long-awaited gesture was confirmed in a statement published on the website of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development on Wednesday.
Among the beneficiaries is former Super Eagles striker Efan Ekoku, who received an official letter for a housing allocation in Abuja. Ekoku was represented at the brief ceremony by his niece, Lisa Jenifer Nwagbogun.
The letter was presented by Pemi Temitope, Director and Head of the Public Building and Housing Development Department, who stood in for the Minister of Housing and Urban Development.
Temitope noted that the initiative was part of the federal government’s commitment to honouring citizens who have contributed significantly to national pride.
“This is a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for the patriotic service of these football legends, who brought glory to the country,” Temitope stated.
In her remarks, Nwagbogun expressed gratitude on behalf of her uncle, describing the gesture as a powerful reminder that public promises can be honoured, even after many years.
“I sincerely thank the Federal Government and the Ministry of Housing for fulfilling this long-standing pledge. It is a meaningful moment that not only celebrates Mr. Ekoku’s achievements but also shows that commitments made to public servants can still be fulfilled,” she said.
The housing allocations stem from a 1994 promise that remained unfulfilled until former President Muhammadu Buhari gave the green light for its implementation in 2022 — 28 years after it was first made.
Members of the legendary team are now being allocated homes across different states, with some, including Ekoku, receiving theirs in the Federal Capital Territory.