Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has praised Nigeria’s Super Eagles for their performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, which concluded on February 11, 2024.
News Central reported that Ivory Coast’s Elephants secured the tournament trophy last night by defeating Nigeria 2-1 in the finals.
In a statement released on Monday in Lagos through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised that despite the loss in the final, the country’s senior team deserved applause.
“The Super Eagles fought gallantly to advance to the AFCON final by defeating South Africa, Angola, and others. The team’s participation in the final on Sunday is a testament to their determination, resilience, and commitment to the competition,” he said.
The Governor encouraged supporters of the Super Eagles to remain optimistic and continue supporting the team, notwithstanding their disappointment in the tournament outcome.
Governors Alex Otti and Siminalayi Fubara of Abia and Rivers States also congratulated the Eagles.
Abia State Governor Alex Otti, speaking through his Chief Press Secretary Kazie Uko, praised the team, stating that even though they did not lift the trophy, they “gave their best and succeeded in further strengthening the nation’s image as a formidable force in African football.”
He also thanked Nigerians for their consistent support and appreciated the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) for their hard work in propelling the Eagles to the AFCON finals.
Similarly, Governor Fubara of Rivers State commended the players for their efforts throughout the 2023 AFCON.
In a statement conveyed by his media aide Boniface Onyedi on Monday, Fubara acknowledged the heroics of Super Eagle’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, which he said, played a crucial role in taking the team that far.
He further reiterated his commitment to developing sports in Rivers as a means of empowering talented youth in the state.