AFCON2023: Nigeria's Sports Minister in crucial meeting with NFF, Super Eagles boss Peseiro

AFCON2023: Nigeria's Sports Minister in crucial meeting with NFF, Super Eagles boss Peseiro

Izuchukwu Akawor 14:07 - 06.12.2023

Nigeria's Super Eagles delegation led by coach Jose Peseiro and NFF President met the Minister to discuss plans on how to do it again in the AFCON2023.

Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh welcomed an NFF delegation at his office led by Nigeria Football Federation President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, and Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro.

The delegation visited the Minister on Wednesday to discuss strategic plans and preparations for the upcoming AFCON2023 slated for Cote d’Ivoire early next year.

Minister charges NFF and Super Eagles

According to a communique from the Minister's office, the agenda for the meeting was to foster a synergy between the parties involved and to establish a comprehensive roadmap to ensure optimal preparation and success of the Super Eagles at AFCOn2023.

On his part, the Minister emphasised the government’s unwavering support for the Super Eagles while hammering on the importance of meticulous planning and cohesive strategies for the AFCON.

Minister of Sports, John Owan Enoh

Senator Enoh highlighted the country’s eagerness and hunger to win the AFCON again after a decade, stating the importance to Nigerians and their President.

He also underscored the need for a collaborative effort between the government through his office and the NFF to ensure the Super Eagles emerged victorious in Ivory Coast. 

Under-fire Super Eagles boss, Jose Peseiro (Photo Credit: Modo Victor/X)

"Our country is so passionate about football, such that amidst all other sports, football is about the only sport that has an entry in the nation's national budget," the Minister said.

"That is how important football is, because whatever happens to it, happens to us as a country."After 10 years, the country is thirsty to win the AFCON. It will matter a great deal to the Nigerian people, and to the Government of President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

The Super Eagles are lookinh to win the AFCON for the first time in 10 years. (Photo Credit: Imago)

It is important to not just leave the task to the NFF alone, but the Government is also interested in being able to tell the Nigerian people what is being done in that regard," the Senator added.

https://twitter.com/OgaNlaMedia/status/1732359025746977216

NFF and Super Eagles reassure Minister, Nigerians

Speaking on behalf of the NFF, President Gusau assured that comprehensive efforts are already underway to ensure that the Super Eagles will have a successful outing at AFCON.

Senator Enoh and NFF President, Gusau during the meeting.

He noted that the NFF is committed to ensuring as excellent campaign, while Super Eagles manager, Peseiro conveyed his appreciation for the commitment from the government. 

The  Portuguese coach also added that his team is committed to making Nigerians proud but stressed that robust preparation remains the key and important to addressing any areas of concern heading into the competition.

Related content

Why Nigeria will host World Cup before 2050
FOOTBALL

08:29 - 02.12.2023

Why Nigeria will host World Cup before 2050

Nigeria, the heartbeat of Africa, is a nation brimming with passion, talent, and an unyielding spirit. With its rich footballing heritage, vibrant culture, and growing infrastructure, Nigeria is undoubtedly the frontrunner to host the FIFA World Cup before 2050.

Tags: