Yakubu Aiyegbeni Reveals Why He Was Sent Home From Nigeria’s 2004 AFCON Camp

Former Super Eagles striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni says he, Victor Agali and Celestine Babayaro were unfairly expelled from Nigeria’s camp during the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia. Aiyegbeni said the trio had returned to their rooms after spending time downstairs when officials questioned where they had been. He maintained that they did not breach camp rules and claimed the decision to send them home had already been made before they were called to a meeting. He said he was shocked to see television reports saying he and Agali had been sent home for violating camp rules shortly after being told to pack their belongings. The episode made him consider retiring from international football, but officials later apologised and persuaded him to continue playing for Nigeria. Aiyegbeni also reflected on his career, saying he believes stronger guidance could have helped him reach an even higher level, including a possible move to Real Madrid. He scored 21 goals for Nigeria and remains one of the country’s leading Premier League-era strikers.

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