FG fulfills 30-Year promise, Allocates houses to 1994 Super Eagles squad

The Federal Government of Nigeria has finally delivered on a three-decade-old pledge, fulfilling its promise of house allocations to the revered members of the 1994 Super Eagles squad, the team that triumphed at the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia.

This long-awaited development was officially disclosed in a statement posted on the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s website on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.

One of the beneficiaries, former prolific striker Efan Ekoku, was formally presented with an allocation letter for a house located in Abuja. Ekoku was represented at the brief ceremony by his niece, Lisa Jenifer Nwagbogun, who received the documents on his behalf.

The allocation letter was presented by Pemi Temitope, Director and Head of Department, Public Building and Housing Development, acting on behalf of the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Dangiwa.

Housing Ministry Hands over Housing Allocation to Efan Ekoku, represented by his niece, Lisa Jenifer Nwagbogun (c). Photo: Federal Ministry of Housing & Urban Development

Temitope described the move as a concrete part of the government’s unwavering commitment to rewarding the patriotic service of the team, which brought immense honor and national pride to Nigeria three decades ago.

The 1994 Super Eagles, coached by Clemens Westerhof, are widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest football teams, achieving a then-record FIFA ranking of 5th in the world following their AFCON victory and impressive performance at the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the USA.

Speaking after receiving the allocation letter, Lisa Jenifer Nwagbogun expressed profound gratitude on behalf of her uncle: “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.”

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She added, “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 the implementation of this 1994 housing pledge received official approval from former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022, nearly 28 years after the initial promise was made by the military government of General Sani Abacha.

Housing units are being allocated to members of the iconic team across various states in Nigeria, allowing players to receive properties in their preferred locations. Some, like Efan Ekoku, are receiving their allocations in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The initiative aims to ensure that all living members of the squad, and in some cases, the families of deceased players, finally receive the promised recognition for their historic achievement.