Atere, Ugbade, others to receive N2m each after 31 years

By Gbenga Ogundare

President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday rewarded members of the nation’s Under-17 Football Team that won the 1985 FIFA Championship when he was military Head of State.
He announced a reward of N2m each to the players that included Fatai Atere, Nduka Ugbade, Jonathan Akpoborie, Baldwin Bazuaye, Victor Igbinoba and late Kingsley Aikiobare among others.
“The reason for the 30 years delay is well known. It is however sad to note that a member of the 1985 Golden Eaglets is not here with us today,’  President Muhammadu Buhari said in his speech.

“It is a well known fact that so much water has passed under the bridge between 1985 and now. The State governments that were to implement most of the pledges to the players and officials have changed hands so many times under different dispensations and political parties.

“Nigerian athletes, despite prevailing challenges, have always proven to the rest of the world that the Nigerian spirit is indomitable.
“I urge the managers of this sector to keep up the momentum. I wish to assure you that the Federal Government of Nigeria would not relent in its efforts to ensure that our sportsmen and women continue to excel in international competitions. I am particularly concerned about our participation at the forthcoming Rio 2016 Olympic Games. We must not allow a repetition of the unsavoury experience at the London 2012 Olympics where Nigerian athletes failed to make it to the podium.
“This Administration’s policy of “change” must reflect in the way we do things either as individuals or institutions. We must strive to be prudent in the way we manage our time, financial and material resources to ensure victory at the next Olympics. We must aim for optimal performance at all international competitions.

Below are all the athletes that got financial rewards

2015 World Wrestling Championship

FIBA 2015 Male Afro-Basketball Champion, D’Tigers

2015 FIBA Africa Under 16 Female Championships

2015 IPC Asian Open International Powerlifting Championship

World English Language Scrabble Champion

WBC Silver Cruiser Weight Title

2015 CAF Under 23 Cup Of Nations Champions

2015 FIFA Under 17 Male Football Champions

1985 FIFA Under 17 Male Football Champions

The late Aikhionbare’s Next of Kin should collect his money on behalf of his family, the President charged.