Presidential reward for Super Eagles

Started by BBC, Feb 13, 2013, 07:31 PM

BBC

Nigeria's Africa Cup of Nations-winning squad have been rewarded with national honours, cash and land gifts presented by President Goodluck Jonathan.

The Super Eagles lifted the trophy in South Africa on Sunday after beating Burkina Faso 1-0 in the final.

Twenty two players received the honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) while coach Stephen Keshi was made Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and his assistants and team captain Joseph Yobo became Officer of the Niger (OON).

In addition, each team member received a plot of land from the Nigerian government.

The president also announced a cash gift of 10m naira ($62,500) to Keshi and 5m naira ($31,250 ) to each of the players.

Speaking at the event, President Jonathan said: "We thank you for making us proud, we gathered here to celebrate you our gallant Super Eagles.

"It was a well deserved victory, you deserved all the accolades and praise, your victory reminds us that dreams can actually come true.

"When we couldn't qualify for the 2012 edition of the competition, the general impression was that football had lost its battle. When you qualified for this edition, the majority didn't give you a chance but with determination, you won.

"We thank Keshi for a good job, you have my backing. The next target is for you to qualify for the World Cup in Brazil. You must not fail and we will support you to do well."

The president also emphasised that the government is determined to improve sport in the country.

Other team officials will receive 2 naira ($12,700) each.

Top industrialists in the country also donated another $2m to the team, according to the president.

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Via: BBC