AFCON: Tinubu honours Iwobi, Ekong, Victor Osimhen, others

President Bola Tinubu met with the National team, the Super Eagles, on Tuesday, where he announced national awards (Member of the Order of the Niger, MON) to each player.

The honors also included flats in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and a piece of land.

The delegation to the presidency was led by the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, along with officials of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF.

The Super Eagles secured second place in the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) hosted by Côte d’Ivoire.

All team members were dressed in green attire.

Other officials spotted by our correspondent included Alex Iwobi, who had faced cyber attacks following Nigeria’s loss to Cote D’Ivoire in the final of the AFCON.

President Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, commended the team, the coach, the crew, and the entire management team for their hard work, dedication, and sacrifice to reach this stage in the tournament. He acknowledged the hurdles they consistently surpassed with steadily improving performance as they progressed to the finals.

The President urged Nigerians to remain optimistic, emphasizing that Nigeria won a significant victory in the hearts of Africa and the world through determination and grit on the field.

“Let this recent event not discourage us, but instead, let it bring us together to work harder. We are a great nation united under the green-white-green banner of resilience, joy, hope, duty, and unwavering love.

“To the cherished Nigerian youths showcasing their talents in communities, leaving their mark as they play football in their humble rectangles of play, you can be our heroes tomorrow; do not give up in your pursuit. My administration is committed to making dreams a reality,” the President affirmed.