Former Nigeria U-23 coach Johannes “Bonfrère” Jo has expressed disappointment over what he says is the Nigerian government’s failure to recognise or reward him for leading the country’s football team to a historic gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.
In an interview with The Punch, the Dutch coach said that while members of Nigeria’s celebrated Dream Team received national honours, cash rewards and houses after their triumph, he has yet to receive any official recognition for his role in the achievement.
“They said everyone has received their rewards, but I have not received anything,” Bonfrère said. “They have never given me the reward for winning the gold medal.”
The 80-year-old also claimed that the Olympic gold medal he received after the final was stolen shortly after the medal presentation.
“Even my gold medal was stolen from me, and I still didn’t get a reward from the government, while all the players received theirs, including some who were not on the list,” he alleged.
Bonfrère recalled that the medal disappeared after officials prevented him from accompanying the players following the presentation ceremony.
“I don’t know how the medal was taken from me. I only know that when the players went upstairs, an official stopped me from going with them, and the medal was gone,” he said.
The former coach said he has repeatedly contacted the relevant authorities over the years in search of recognition but has received no response.
“I will be happy if something can be done because I have made several calls and sent messages, but nobody has been interested in helping me,” he added.
Bonfrère Jo remains one of the most successful coaches in Nigerian football history after guiding the Dream Team to Africa’s first-ever Olympic football gold medal.
Nigeria’s memorable campaign included a dramatic 4-3 semi-final victory over Brazil before defeating Argentina 3-2 in the final. The historic squad featured some of the country’s greatest footballers, including Nwankwo Kanu, Austin Okocha, Daniel Amokachi, Taribo West, Celestine Babayaro, Garba Lawal and Emmanuel Amuneke.