Former Golden Eaglets captain Musa Muhammed has once again called on Cross River State Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu to fulfill a promise made over a decade ago. Muhammed, along with his teammates and officials from Nigeria’s victorious 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup squad, has yet to receive the houses promised to them by former Governor Liyel Imoke.
Today marks the 11th anniversary of the Golden Eaglets’ historic 3-0 victory over Mexico in the final in Abu Dhabi, a win that secured Nigeria’s fourth U-17 World Cup title under coach Manu Garba. Shortly after their return, then-Governor Imoke hosted the team in Calabar and, on behalf of the people of Cross River, pledged homes for each of the 21 players and 10 officials as a reward for their achievements.
” They should help us plead with the Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Edet Otu to help us fulfil the promise made by the previous administration since 2013,” Muhammed stated. “We hope and pray that the current Governor will honor the commitment made by former Governor Liyel Imoke.”
Muhammed highlighted that the team’s dedication and achievements in Calabar made the pledge a fitting gesture, especially since the Golden Eaglets spent nearly a year and a half training in the state to prepare for the tournament. The team’s extended stay in Cross River fostered a deep connection with the area, as they came to regard it as a second home.
“We are hopeful the present Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu is going to help do that,” Muhammed continued. “The state government promised all the players and officials houses in Calabar but up till now, we have not heard anything from them.”
Muhammed expressed how meaningful it would be for the players to finally receive their homes, acknowledging the sacrifices made by the team and staff who contributed to Nigeria’s historic 2013 victory. He also described his fondness for Cross River, saying it would be his preferred place to live aside from Kano.
““We have tried everything possible to reach out to the state government for them to know our plights.”
The 2013 Golden Eaglets team remains a celebrated part of Nigerian sports history, and the players hope this anniversary prompts action from the Cross River State government to deliver on the promise made 11 years ago.
