President Bola Tinubu lauded the Super Eagles of Nigeria for epitomizing the potency of diversity through collective camaraderie and rigor during the Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire. At a gathering in Abuja’s State House on Tuesday, Tinubu hailed the squad’s cohesion, resolve, and tenacity on the pitch, acknowledging the sense of national pride Nigerians derived from their remarkable odyssey throughout the tournament.
In his address to the Super Eagles, President Tinubu extolled their tutelage in perseverance, solidarity, and exuberance in competitive encounters. Despite initial skepticism, the team advanced to the finals, confronting adversities and the host nation’s humidity with unyielding dedication to their nation and clubs. Tinubu underscored the team’s capacity to elevate spirits and evoke patriotic fervor, demonstrating sportsmanship, resilience, and solidarity throughout the event.
Tinubu pledged further investments in sports and youth empowerment, with the aim of enticing greater private sector involvement in the Nigerian Professional Football League. Expressing pride in the team’s feats, he announced the bestowal of national accolades and the provision of an apartment and a parcel of land to each player, underscoring his dedication to fostering sports in Nigeria and acknowledging the players’ contributions.
Each member of the Super Eagles was presented with the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) lapel insignias and documentation for land allocation by Chief Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Senator John Enoh, Minister of Sports Development, lauded Tinubu’s backing for sports advancement and the establishment of a distinct Ministry of Sports Development, noting the absence of crises or disputes over allowances during the tournament.
In response, Vice-Captain William Troost-Ekong expressed gratitude for the encouragement received in Ivory Coast and pledged to pursue greater triumphs, aspiring to secure the gold medal in the forthcoming contest. Troost-Ekong’s sentiments echoed the team’s resolve to build upon their accomplishments and secure more significant victories in the time ahead.