The Rev. Samuel Ikpea, the National Chairman, Nigeria Football Supporters Club, has added another feather to his cap — the “National Development Merit Award” (NDMA).
The latest honour was bestowed on him by the Publisher and Editor-In-Chief of a Lagos-based publication, “Elation Magazine’’ on Thursday Otunba Darlington Momoh Umoru.
I declare that this award is in appreciation of Ikpea’s massive achievements in sports promotion and development.
Ikpea’s encouraging words and assistance to people have made them better equipped today,’’ Umoru said in a statement by the club’s Media Officer, Peter Ejiofor, and emailed to Persecondnews.
In his acceptance speech, Ikpea, who became the NFSC chairman in 2016 said: “I dedicate this award to the Almighty God, my family and the entire members of the NFSC.’’
According to him, the tireless contributions and support of the NFSC members formed the engine room which propelled him to success as a leader.
I cannot clap alone, sing alone and beat the drum alone, or work alone as a leader; you all made this club thick.
This award is a wakeup call for more work. To whom much is given, much is expected. I will continue to work for the advancement of the supporters club and Nigeria as a country.’’
The soft spoken man of God, however, advised his members not to fret or waver in their loyalty to the club in spite of the presence of other splinter supporters groups.
We are the foremost supporters club in Nigeria. We are unbeatable as our national status and acceptability is not in doubt.
See also Victor Boniface Jokes About Hanging Up Boots After Underwhelming Performance "The 24-year-old Super Eagles forward made the announcement after Nigeria's 1-1 draw against Russia in an international friendly match in Moscow on Friday" By Samuel Akpan Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface took to social media to announce his retirement from international football, only to delete the post minutes later and share a meme hinting it was all a joke. The 24-year-old Super Eagles forward made the announcement after Nigeria's 1-1 draw against Russia in an international friendly match in Moscow on Friday. In his Instagram post, Boniface expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play for his country, saying, "Proud to play for my country and a dream for me also. Really enjoyed every moment, the good and the bad. Thanks a lot. "Thank you all. I don hang boot." However, fans were not convinced, given his history of social media jokes and lighthearted antics. The international friendly match between Russia and Nigeria ended in a 1-1 draw. Russia took the lead in the 27th minute when Semi Ajayi scored an own goal, deflecting a cross from Danil Krugovoy into the net. Despite dominating the game, Nigeria struggled to find the back of the net until Tolu Arokodare, who replaced Boniface in the 61st minute, scored the equalizer in the 71st minute. Arokodare's goal was a testament to his impact on the game, and it salvaged a draw for the Super Eagles. Nigeria's goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, also made crucial saves to prevent Russia from scoring further. The draw maintained Eric Chelle's unbeaten record as Super Eagles coach, with three wins and two draws so far. Boniface's performance against Russia was another underwhelming display, sparking criticism from fans and pundits. He failed to score or create significant chances, leading to his substitution in favour of Arokodare. Persecondnews notes that the striker has yet to score for the Super Eagles, despite playing 13 games for the national team.
“Together we will continue to project and represent our country through the supporters club within and in the Diaspora,’’ he said.
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