President Bola Tinubu demonstrated the nation’s appreciation for the Super Eagles of Nigeria on Tuesday by conferring upon them the prestigious national award, Member of the Order of the Niger (MON). The players and officials were also rewarded with flats in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and pieces of land. The announcement was made during a reception held at the Council Chamber in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where President Tinubu welcomed the delegation led by the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh.
The Super Eagles, who secured a commendable runner-up position in the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) hosted by Côte d’Ivoire, attended the ceremony in their distinctive green attire. The event included the presence of all team members and officials, including Alex Iwobi, who had faced cyber attacks after Nigeria’s loss to Cote d’Ivoire in the AFCON final.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu lauded the team, the coach, the crew, and the entire management for their hard work, assiduity, and sacrifice throughout the tournament. He acknowledged the hurdles they consistently surpassed with steadily improving performance, culminating in their journey to the finals.
President Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to find solace in the team’s achievements, emphasizing that Nigeria had won a great victory in the hearts of Africa and the world through their grit, rigour, and determination on the field. He urged citizens to unite and work harder, underlining the nation’s resilience, joy, hope, duty, and untiring love symbolized by the green-white-green banner.
In an inspirational message to young football enthusiasts across the country, the President stated, “To those cherished Nigerian youths expressing their gifts in communities, drawing lines in the sand as they play football in their humble rectangles of play, you can be our heroes tomorrow; do not relent in your pursuit. My administration is here to make dreams come true.”
