Sports Minister Begs Nigerians To Provide Financial Support For Super Eagles Ahead AFCON Final

The Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh has made a clarion call for private investment in sports aftermath of the Super Eagles’ impressive performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

The minister made the call while addressing Journalists after the Super Eagles defeated South Africa 4-2 to qualify for the final of the competition on Thursday.

Enoh revealed that the Nations Cup has re-awakened the spirit of nationality and unity among Nigerians, citing the power of sports to bring happiness and joy to the nation.

He has now urged individuals, private organizations and the private sector to invest more in sports.

Enoh said: “I believe that the togetherness and unity that is greeting the success of the Nigerian team at the AFCON is a clarion call to all Nigerians, corporate organizations and the private sector to again see that sports is one activity that brings happiness and joy to all Nigerians, and therefore it makes a very good case for continuous investment in it.

“The AFCON is reawakening a renewed sense of identity and pride for our nation.”

The Minister said that sponsorship and investment in sports should not be left to the government alone because it provides a platform to reach out to the generality of Nigerians.

He addee, “We are not even done yet with the AFCON. A few days ago, we got the Progressive Governors’ Forum to give huge support to the team, and from now until the next few days, we will be reaching out to Nigerians to motivate these players. Letters, personal calls and appeals will be sent out. I am calling on everyone to be a part of what the Ministry is doing.”

Enoh also showered praises on President Bola Tinubu for his unflinching support to the Super Eagles as they aim to win the Nations Cup trophy for the fourth time.

“Mr President is everything our sports needs, and what our country needs. From the approval of funds, clearing of previously-owed salaries and bonuses, and other policy support, Mr. President has given incredible support to sports. To crown it up, he has stated that he will be in Abidjan for the final. The Senate President was in the quarterfinal match, and the vice president attended the semifinal. This Government has shown support and commitment to what is bringing happiness to Nigerians in this difficult period.”

The Super Eagles will be aiming to win Nigeria’s fourth Nations Cup trophy when they take on hosts, Ivory Coast in the final on Sunday at the Alassanne Quattara Stadium, Ebimpe, Abidjan.

The late Stephen Keshi led the Super Eagles to their last Nations Cup trophy in 2013, which followed up triumph in 1980 and 1994.