Three-time champions, Nigeria, arrived in the Ivorian capital, Abidjan, for the 34th Africa Cup of Nations finals on Wednesday, with the contingent dressed in Nigerian traditional kaftan attire.
The Nigerian team, which departed the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, joined the likes of Morocco and Guinea-Bissau to arrive in Cote d’Ivoire for the tournament, which will be held from January 13 to February 11.
According to Persecond News, the team was hosted to a dinner and send-off ceremony for the Super Eagles on Tuesday night by the Lagos State Government, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu serving as the chief host.
Also present at the ceremony were Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, members of the NFF Executive Committee, FIFA Council Member Amaju Pinnick, NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, and First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibironke Sanwo-Olu.
The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alh. Ibrahim Musa Gusau said in his remark that he has the assurance of the Head Coach, Jose Peseiro, and the top players that they are going on an onslaught for a fourth continental title in Cote d’Ivoire.
“I have spoken to the Head Coach and the Captain, and also a good number of the players, and they have assured me of their determination to push strongly for triumph in Cote d’Ivoire, thereby winning the trophy for a fourth time.”
He added that the NFF is very grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving funds for the team’s preparation and participation at the continental finals.
Sanwo-Olu harped on the fact that football is Nigeria’s biggest unifying factor, stating that “our peoples from different regions and religions, cultures, norms, and social and economic backgrounds come together to cheer our national teams whenever they are playing. Football brings us all together.
“I am making a pledge to be personally present at the Africa Cup of Nations to support you. We know you are all geared up to perform at the AFCON and make our country proud. We will give you all the support and encouragement that you require.”
Senator Enoh charged the players to approach each of their matches with the fabled Nigerian spirit, with which they can always surmount obstacles, odds, and hurdles and achieve glory. “With over 200 million Nigerians eagerly watching and supporting you, your performance holds the hopes and dreams of our entire nation.
“Take the fight to your opponents and show the Naija spirit that you carry.”
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