In a heartfelt message, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged the members of the Super Eagles to not only excel in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) but also view their performance as a source of succor for Nigerians grappling with various economic challenges. The governor issued this charge during a special dinner held at Lagos House, Marina, on late Tuesday evening, as the team prepared for their departure to Cote-de-Ivoire for the AFCON Competition commencing on Saturday.
Addressing the players, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized their crucial role as a unifying force for the nation. He stated, “You are our country unifier, as much as we will be putting the pressure on you during the matches, Nigerians expect you to do that (unifying spirit) for us. We believe we have the men who can do it for us.”
Acknowledging potential skepticism about the team’s capabilities, Sanwo-Olu encouraged the players to believe in themselves, highlighting the importance of self-confidence. He rallied the Super Eagles, reminding them of their capacity to bring together the entire nation, encompassing the 220 million people in Nigeria and the diaspora. The governor expressed optimism that the team could etch their names in gold by winning the AFCON title.
Governor Sanwo-Olu underscored the significance of sports as a healing tool, especially during challenging times, stating, “We need that cup to be a succour, that would energize us and bring together all of the yearnings of this country.” He urged the players to draw inspiration from their sense of patronage and patriotism, emphasizing that their achievements could serve as a unifying force in a nation yearning for peace and unity.
The governor concluded his message by assuring the Super Eagles that over 220 million Nigerians stood firmly behind them in unwavering support. He emphasized the need for the players to maintain belief, resilience, and commitment throughout the tournament, regardless of the challenges they may face on the field.
The special dinner was attended by notable figures, including the Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh, the Minister of Sports Development, and Ibrahim Musa Gusau, Chairman of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), among others. As the Super Eagles embark on their AFCON journey, the nation eagerly anticipates their performance as a source of pride and unity in the face of current economic difficulties.
