Former Nigeria U-23 coach Johannes “Bonfrère” Jo has expressed disappointment over what he described as the Nigerian government’s failure to reward or officially recognise him for leading the country to its historic football gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.
Speaking in an interview with The Punch, the Dutch coach said that while members of the famous Dream Team received national honours, houses and cash rewards, he has never been recognised for his role in guiding Nigeria to become the first African nation to win Olympic football gold.
According to Bonfrère:
“They were claiming that everyone has received their rewards, but I have not received anything. They have never given me the reward for winning the gold medal.”
The 80-year-old also revealed that his Olympic gold medal was allegedly stolen shortly after the medal presentation in Atlanta.
He said:
“Even my gold medal was stolen from me, and I still didn’t get a reward from the government, which all the players have received, including players who were not on the list.”
Recalling the incident, Bonfrère explained:
“I don’t know how the medal was collected from me; I only know that when the players went upstairs, an official stopped me from going with them and the medal was gone.”
The veteran coach said he has made several attempts over the years to seek recognition from the relevant authorities 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 was interested in helping me,” he added.
Bonfrère remains one of the most successful coaches in Nigerian football history after guiding the Dream Team to Olympic glory in 1996. Nigeria defeated Brazil 4-3 in a thrilling semi-final before coming from behind to beat Argentina 3-2 in the final, becoming the first African nation to win Olympic football gold.
The historic squad featured legendary players including Nwankwo Kanu, Austin Okocha, Daniel Amokachi, Taribo West, Celestine Babayaro, Garba Lawal, and Emmanuel Amuneke.