Forty Years On: Mexico ’83 Flying Eagles Demand Fulfilment of Scholarship Promise

Forty-three years after making history at the 1983 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Mexico, members of Nigeria’s first junior World Cup team are still waiting on scholarships promised by President Shehu Shagari. At a farewell ceremony in Lagos, the team received national honours and a pledge of academic awards that remain unpaid. Of the original squad, six have passed away without ever receiving the reward. Led by former vice-captain Paul Okoku, the surviving players are appealing for the Federal Government to convert their long-overdue scholarship into its cash equivalent. They hope this gesture will honour their service and safeguard their legacy.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.