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