Following remarks made by certain former Nigerian football players who criticized the Nigeria Football Federation and the government for ignoring former players, Udo-Obong issued this statement.

Austin Eguavoen and Taribo West, two former Super Eagles defenders, addressed during the singing service for the late goalie and criticized the government for deserting Rufai.

However, the Nigeria Football Federation issued a statement refuting the former internationals’ allegations.

Austin Eguavoen’s comparison of being a soldier and playing for the Super Eagles or any other sports team is offensive. Udo-Obong said on Facebook, “One lives a life of luxury and privilege, and the other sacrifices his life and privileges so that everyone can enjoy a life of privilege.”

“No athlete is owed any favors by the country. Conversely, we owe the nation for providing us with the means and chance to develop our abilities and lead lives that are envied by most.

“Respect and acknowledgment for our efforts are all we deserve from the nation and its leaders.”
For Nigeria, Udo-Obong took home two Olympic medals.

He earned bronze in the same race in Athens in 2004 and led the men’s 4×400-meter relay team to gold in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

He became the Technical Director of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Athletics Development Program in 2024.

After a fierce competition with other experts from America, Britain, and Australia, he was hired.

The 43-year-old had previously served in a variety of roles in Nigerian sports. As the Lagos State Athletics Association’s Technical Director, he was also well-known.