As Nigeria marks the 11th anniversary of the Golden Eaglets’ unforgettable triumph in the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup, a long-standing promise made to the young champions remains unfulfilled. On November 8, 2013, Nigeria’s team, led by Coach Manu Garba, clinched victory over Mexico with a resounding 3-0 in the finals, securing Nigeria’s fourth U-17 World Cup title. However, the housing pledge made to the players and team officials by then-Governor of Cross River State, Liyel Imoke, during a grand reception at the Government House in Calabar, has yet to be honored.

Imoke had committed to providing houses to the 21 players and ten team officials. Former team captain Musa Muhammed, who has been vocal in appealing to Cross River’s current Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, is hopeful that the new administration will fulfill the promise. “We hope and pray that Governor Otu can help us. The state government promised all players and officials houses in Calabar, but up till now, we have not heard anything,” Muhammed expressed.

The connection between the team and Cross River State runs deep, as the Golden Eaglets spent over a year preparing in Calabar before their triumphant journey to the UAE. “We are children of Cross River too,” Muhammed emphasized, describing the peaceful, welcoming environment where they trained and bonded. He expressed a strong desire to live in Cross River if not in his hometown of Kano, underscoring the players’ attachment to the state and their shared pride in representing Nigeria.

Since assuming office in 2023, Governor Otu has focused on revitalizing the state’s economy, reporting a 60.6% boost in internally generated revenue. His administration has prioritized infrastructure, agriculture, health, and youth programs. With renewed optimism, supporters hope that this commitment will extend to honoring Nigeria’s young football heroes, who still await recognition in the form of the promised houses. The gesture would reinforce accountability and respect for the country’s sports icons, reminding future generations that Nigeria values their achievements.