The Federal Government has redeemed the houses promised to the 1994 Super Eagles World Cup Champions promised to them 27 years ago, following its commitment to the welfare of sports men and women.
The Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development Mr. Sunday Dare made this known in his office at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja when he received the Super Eagles 94 heroes led by their Captain Augustine Eguavon.
He said that President Muhammadu Buhari Administration has in its commitment to the citizens and to sports development in particular, have lived up to its bidding as it redeemed the houses promised to the 1994 Super Eagles World Cup Champions by the previous administrations.
Mr Dare who hailed the players for their outstanding performance at the 1994 World Cup, a record which he said, stands as one of the best the country has ever witnessed urged them to help put their experiences in football to coach the younger generation of footballers.
The Minister stated further that, the Federal Government in its bid for a sustainable welfare for the athletes, is aimed at setting up a welfare package system which he said “will take care of not only reigning but also retired athletes. Through the package, government will be able to reach out for present and past heroes of sports. The package to be put in place will have a sustainable model that will endure the test of time.” Dare said.
He explained that a committee has also been put in place to develop 10 years football masterplan basically for the welfare of footballers living or dead, adding that the National Sport Policy will now ensure football is run as a business.
As part of the assurance to fulfilling the pledged, the Minister of Youth and Sport Development Mr Sunday Dare led the 1994 Team to a thank you visit to the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, who was instrumental in using his office to deliver the housing scheme to the players.
Fashola assured that the present administration is committed to the Nigeria project, particularly the welfare of athletes and sport development in the country and that was why he said, the present administration is fulfilling their promise by delivering the houses to team 94.
He stated further that he is proud of the present administration for redeeming the promise made by past governments.
Speaking on behalf of the 94 Team, their Captain, Austin Eguavon thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for fulfilling the long awaited promise.
He stated that this government will always be remembered for this gesture even as it will encourage upcoming footballers.
Signed
Mohammed Manga
Director (Press & Public Relations)
