As the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) draws closer, the Senior Men’s National team of Nigeria, popularly known as the Super Eagles, is putting in the necessary preparations to take on the rest of the continent on the grand stage.
In a bid to encourage and motivate the team, the Honourable Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh, organised a farewell dinner for the team, where he urged the players to embody the spirit of resilience and togetherness in bringing the trophy home.
In his address to the team, Senator Enoh stressed the importance of wearing the Nigerian badge with pride and patriotism throughout the tournament.
He implored the team to embrace the “never say die” spirit of Nigeria and play not only for themselves but also for their families and the nation as a whole.
The Senator reminded the team that their performance would be watched by over 200 million Nigerians who have high hopes for them.
Acknowledging the comprehensive support provided by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in ensuring the team’s readiness, the Minister urged the Super Eagles to seize every opportunity from the very first game.
He encouraged them to take the fight to their opponents and showcase the Naija Spirit that they carry.
Senator Enoh pledged his presence in Ivory Coast to offer on-ground support and work closely with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to maintain focus and motivation within the team.
He expressed his commitment to the team, assuring them of undistracted support and endeavouring to secure all that is rightfully theirs, ensuring that their representation of the fatherland is marked by their commitment.
Nigeria is a country with a rich history in football, and the Super Eagles have won the AFCON three times in the past, in 1980, 1994, and 2013.
The team is gearing up to make the country proud once again, and their journey begins with their first game against Equatorial Guinea on Sunday, January 14th, followed by a match against the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire four days later.
Their last group game will be against the Wild Dogs of Guinea Bissau on January 22nd.
