Former Olympic gold medallist Enefiok Udo-Obong has criticised Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen for likening the sacrifices of footballers to those of military personnel.
Eguavoen, speaking after the funeral of late Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, lamented that Nigeria had “not done enough” to honour fallen football heroes.
In his remarks, the former Super Eagles coach recalled injuries and sacrifices made by players during national duty, insisting the government should do more for legends of the game.
Udo-Obong struggled with injuries during his active days. Photo Credit: Getty Images
But Udo-Obong, popularly known as Enee, dismissed the comparison as “insulting.” Writing on his official Facebook page, the two-time Olympic medallist said:
“It is insulting for Austin Eguavoen to compare playing in the Super Eagles or any sportsman with a soldier. One lives a life of luxury and privilege and the other lays down his life and privileges so that all can enjoy a life of privilege.”
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He argued that while athletes deserve respect for their work, they are not owed by the nation beyond recognition.
“The nation owes no sportsman any favour. On the contrary, we owe the country for the opportunity and platform they have given us to flourish our talents and to live a life envious to the majority.
All we deserve from the country and its leaders is respect and recognition for our hard work,” he added.
The screenshot of Enefiok Udo-Obong’s message to Ex Super Eagles gaffer Augustine Eguavoen. Image Credit: The Athletic Images/ Ene Facebook
Udo-Obong, a former board member of the Nigerian Olympic Committee and ex-chair of its Athletes’ Commission, is one of Nigeria’s most decorated Olympians.
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He won gold in the men’s 4x400m relay at the Sydney 2000 Olympics and bronze in the same event at Athens 2004.
Nigeria’s 4x400m relay team were officially crowned Olympic champions a decade after Sydney 2000 following the USA’s doping scandal. Photo Credit: Getty Images
His comments come in the wake of heated criticism from both Eguavoen and former defender Taribo West, who had accused the NFF and Lagos State Government of failing to adequately support Rufai’s family.
The NFF has since defended itself, insisting financial and logistical support was provided for the burial.
