Minister of State for Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Olajumoke Akinjide on Tuesday commended the Super Eagles of Nigeria for making the nation proud at the 29th African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2013.
Members of the team, the technical crew and officials of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at 3:15pm Nigerian time to a tumultuous crowd of jubilant supporters and Abuja residents.
The Super Eagles defeated Burkina Faso by a lone goal on Sunday night to emerge African Champions for the third time, and become the fourth most successful football team on the continent after Egypt (with five titles) and Ghana and Cameroon, who have four titles apiece.
Akinjide expressed happiness that the team was led to victory by a Nigerian coach, Stephen Keshi, and also assisted by another Nigerian, Daniel “The Bull” Amokachi.
She noted that the team captained by Fenerbahçe of Turkey defender, Joseph Yobo, displayed a high level of commitment, dedication and patriotism, adding that victory at AFCON 2013 has restored the nation’s pride and positioned the country in its rightful place as the Giant of Africa in the area of football.
“The AFCON triumph, which is coming after 19 years, is an indication of a better future for the country,” she said.
“We need to remain focused, disciplined and determined. Nigeria is surely getting better in the areas sports and the economy.
“I express my heartfelt congratulation to the coach and our spectacular Super Eagles for making Nigeria proud. I enjoin all Nigerians to learn from the strong determination, the will to succeed and patriotic zeal that brought victory to the team and the nation.”
She further urged the team not to rest on its oars but work towards achieving a similar feat at the forthcoming FIFA Confederations Cup and the Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup.
