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Nigerians need AFCON victory, Sanwo-Olu tells Super Eagles
The governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urged the Super Eagles men's football team to win the upcoming TotalEnergies CAF African Cup of Nations tournament on Tuesday, saying that the team's victory would benefit the populace.
The governor said that the victory would assist in reviving those who have experienced financial hardships, especially those resulting from the elimination of fuel subsidies.
Additionally, Sanwo-Olu urged the players to keep going because winning competitions requires tenacity and camaraderie.
Before the team leaves for Cote d'Ivoire for the AFCON tournament, which is scheduled to start on Saturday, January 13, the governor gave the charge during a special dinner at Lagos House, Marina.
"You are our nation's unifier; Nigerians expect you to do that (unifying spirit) for us, even though we will be putting pressure on you during the matches," the speaker stated. We think we have the men to pull it off.
People may argue that we lack a cohesive team, but it's important to remember that once you have self-belief, you can overcome any obstacle and work as a team to achieve our goals—regardless of the country's fuel prices or other challenges. Let us see you go out there and show that 220 million Nigerians living in the country and the diaspora stand with you.
You may write your names in gold forever by doing this, too. Furthermore, I would like to reassure you that 220 million Nigerians are rooting for you.
"Let your sense of patriotism and patronage be your motivating factor. We know it." Take heart in the fact that we currently require this unifier for our nation. In order for us (Nigerians) to heal, we need peace and sports.
Sanwo-Olu addressed the Eagles, saying that Nigerians "need that cup to be a succour that would energise us and bring together all of this country's yearnings." I also ask God to give you the courage to accomplish this.
"Make sure you don't give up," he advised the players, adding that it's possible that the first half wasn't what they had hoped for. Don't give up; it might take up to 70 minutes.
"Remain persistent; you have 80 minutes to see." You have to believe that opportunities always exist until the last minute and that's just the way life works.
"We can't just declare that we will repeat an action verbally; we also need to demonstrate the team's dedication and spirit." The governor said, "Just know that over 222 million Nigerians are supporting you.
Among those present were Senator John Enoh, the minister of sports, and Ibrahim Gusau, the chairman of the Nigeria Football Federation.
In a friendly match on Monday against Guinea in advance of the 2023 AFCON, the Eagles were defeated 2-0, according to PUNCH Online.
The friendly game took place at Abu Dhabi's Bani Yas Stadium.
This came after the Eagles defeated the local Dubai team Al Gharbia FC 12-0 in an Abu Dhabi training game on Sunday.