I fund Super Eagles trip to 2016 Rio Olympics but till date I haven’t been reimbursed – Mikel Obi

“I used my own money to help fund the Nigerian Super Eagles’ trip to the 2016 Rio Olympics, and till this day, the federation has not given me anything back. Honestly, I regret doing that.” — Mikel Obi

“In 2016, the Nigerian national football team was stranded at the airport en route to the Rio Olympics. 

“Although the budget had been approved, the funds were withheld by the official responsible [NFF] , leaving the team without resources to travel.

“After hours of delay, I consulted with the coach and learned the issue stemmed from the unavailability of the travel funds. 

“Observing that many players were young and inexperienced at such a major tournament, I decided to act. 

“I informed the coach that I would personally cover the trip’s expenses on the condition of reimbursement.

“I paid for the team’s travel, and we went on to win bronze medals at the Olympics. Regrettably, the Nigerian government has yet to refund me for these expenses.”