Onyedika Vows to Preserve 1980 AFCON Gift

Former Nigeria striker and 1980 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner, Ifeanyi Onyedika, has revealed that he will never sell the house awarded to him by the Shehu Shagari-led Federal Government after Nigeria’s maiden AFCON triumph. Describing the property as a “legacy,” Onyedika said the house, located in Festac, Lagos, holds deep sentimental value and represents a milestone in his football career.

“It’s still there in Lagos, at Festac,” Onyedika said. “If you want to rent it, I can give you a paper and you meet my lawyer.” When asked why he wouldn’t sell the house, Onyedika replied, “It’s a legacy. I won’t even transfer it. I live in Enugu now, in an estate. It’s something I look back on and remember the old playing days – the Nations Cup win.”

Onyedika’s decision to preserve the gift is in contrast to some of his former teammates, who have sold their homes or transferred ownership. Late captain Christian Chukwu, famously known as ‘Chairman’, once revealed that he “transferred” his Festac home by selling it to build a new one in Enugu.

In addition to the house, the victorious 1980 squad members were also awarded brand-new Peugeot 504 saloon cars for their achievement. Onyedika’s commitment to preserving the gift is a testament to the significance of the AFCON win in his life.

Abakaliki FC’s Cup Run
As the Head Coach of Nigeria National League (NNL) side Abakaliki FC, Onyedika’s team has earned the nickname ‘Giant Killers’ for their impressive performance in the 2025 President Federation Cup. They are preparing for a semi-final clash against NPFL side Ikorodu City FC on May 18.

“We’re ready and prepared for the semi-final match,” Onyedika said. “Ikorodu City is a good side – I watched them beat Lobi Stars in Enugu. But we’ve beaten Yobe Desert Stars, Katsina United, Enyimba, and Nasarawa United. Though they are good, they aren’t better than those teams.”

Onyedika attributed his team’s success to their confidence and experience, saying, “People say we’re a second-tier league side – and that’s true. But my players don’t see it that way. Many of them have featured for NPFL clubs before, so they aren’t intimidated by the Premier League label.”

Quotes

• “It’s a legacy. I won’t even transfer it.”
• “I live in Enugu now, in an estate. It’s something I look back on and remember the old playing days – the Nations Cup win.”
• “We’re ready and prepared for the semi-final match.”
• “People say we’re a second-tier league side – and that’s true. But my players don’t see it that way.”

Conclusion
Ifeanyi Onyedika’s decision to preserve his 1980 AFCON gift is a testament to the significance of the win in his life. As the Head Coach of Abakaliki FC, Onyedika’s team is making waves in the President Federation Cup, and he remains confident about their chances of success.