In 2001, then President Olusegun Obasanjo met with members of the Super Eagles after their return from Sudan, following an emphatic 4–0 victory in a World Cup qualifier in Omdurman. During the brief meeting, Obasanjo reportedly shook hands with the players and officials but offered no words of commendation or assurance.

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The players later described the encounter as “unfatherly,” expressing disappointment at what they perceived as a lack of appreciation for a significant national achievement.

Reacting to the incident, a sports stakeholder criticized the president’s action, stressing the importance of motivation and recognition for athletes who represent the country on the international stage.

“I’m not in support of the president’s action because I believe our sportsmen and women should be rewarded for their efforts, having proved to be good ambassadors of the country. Government should give a token of appreciation for their efforts to motivate them to do better,” the stakeholder said.

The episode has since remained a reference point in discussions about how Nigeria treats its athletes, with many arguing that recognition and incentives are vital for sustaining excellence and national pride in sports.