The Nigeria Sports Stakeholders Forum (NSSF) has commended the Federal Government of Nigeria for fulfilling its 2024 promise to reward members of the Super Eagles with housing benefits following the team’s silver-medal finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.

In a statement issued by the Forum, the fulfilment of the housing rewards was described as a strong signal of government’s commitment to athlete welfare, policy consistency, and credibility in sports governance.

Reacting to the development, Convener of the Nigeria Sports Stakeholders Forum, ESV Ayodele Thomas, a seasoned sports business specialist and FIFA-licensed Players Agent, praised the Federal Government for keeping faith with the national team.

“The fulfilment of this promise is more than a reward; it is a statement of credibility,” Thomas said.

 “When government honours its commitments to athletes, it builds trust, boosts morale, and sends a clear message that excellence and sacrifice in national service will always be recognised.”

He noted that the Super Eagles’ run to the AFCON final united Nigerians across social and regional lines and projected a positive image of the country on the continental stage.

“The Super Eagles competed with pride, resilience, and professionalism,” he added.

 “By delivering on the housing rewards, the Federal Government has demonstrated accountability and set an important benchmark for sports administration in Nigeria".

The Forum emphasized that timely and transparent fulfilment of post competition incentives is critical to sustaining athletes’ confidence and inspiring emerging talents across the country.

According to Thomas, the gesture should also serve as a foundation for deeper structural reforms in sports development.

“Globally, elite athletes operate within systems that prioritise welfare, clarity, and long-term security,” he said. 

“Nigeria must continue in this direction by institutionalising rewards, strengthening governance, and expanding public-private collaboration in sports".

The Nigeria Sports Stakeholders Forum called for sustained investment in sports infrastructure, athlete welfare frameworks, and post-career transition support, noting that these elements are essential for long-term success.

The statement concluded by congratulating the Super Eagles once again and reaffirming the Forum’s commitment to constructive engagement with government and stakeholders to advance Nigerian sports.