On Friday, the Federal Government expressed its optimism for the Super Eagles to clinch victory and secure the trophy at the upcoming African Cup of Nations in 2024.
In a statement following closed-door discussions with President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, Sports Minister John Enoh conveyed the country’s high expectations for the team’s success. Enoh’s remarks coincided with the recent grouping of teams for the tournament, where the Super Eagles found themselves placed in Group A alongside the host nation, Ivory Coast, as well as Guinea-Bissau and Equatorial Guinea.
Ensuring strong national support, Enoh assured Nigerians that the government would spare no efforts in rallying the nation behind the Super Eagles. Recognizing the impact of home support on athletes’ performance, he emphasized the importance of a united front.
President Tinubu has approved $1.3 million for Super Eagles AFCON campaign. pic.twitter.com/Wzb7NeAPxx
— Blinkscoop Official (@Blinkscoop1) January 4, 2024
To galvanize this support, President Tinubu endorsed a national campaign called “Let’s Do It Again,” aimed at mobilizing resources for the Super Eagles’ success in the tournament. The campaign’s goal is to boost the morale of the team by showcasing widespread national backing.
Enoh explained that the campaign, funded by the private sector, aims to alleviate the need for government funds in supporting the national team during the tournament. He stressed the importance of proper preparation, acknowledging the Eagles’ determination to reclaim the AFCON title after a decade-long hiatus.
Looking beyond immediate goals, Enoh outlined plans for long-term sports development, placing a strong emphasis on grassroots initiatives. He pledged to revive headmasters’ sports competitions in primary schools, creating opportunities for young talents in rural areas to access sports facilities and nurture their skills.