Cross River State - NFF Decorates Imoke as Eaglets Resume Camp in Calabar

[CrossRiverState]

Ahead of the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup slated for United Arab Emirates, in September 2013, Cross River Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke, has granted approval for the Eaglets to be camped in Calabar, the State capital.

Imoke who disclosed this following a request made by the first Vice President, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Chief Mike Umeh, when he led other members of the Federation on a courtesy call in Calabar, said the State will not tire at hosting the future champions of Nigeria after keeping them for the just concluded 2013 Moroccan Under-17 which they came 3rd..

He maintained that Calabar has remained the home of football coupled with its serenity and hospitality; hence the need to continue to partner and encourage activities involving the youths which he noted helps to keep the nation as an indivisible entity.

"The only time that we all stand up and scream that we are Nigerians, is when you guys are playing and winning. It gives us honour and dignity", the Governor pointed out.

The Governor reasoned that success has many friends, as such, Cross Riverians, known as friends of success would not relent in appreciating good works as displayed by the various football teams who have made the State their home and winning laurels in spite of associated challenges.

Senator Imoke who received an Africa Championship Awareness silver medal on behalf of the State, commended Nigerian football and the management of the U-17 football team for the honour done him as well as for the time, resources and other associated challenges faced while developing the talent of the boys in ensuring they won laurels and making the Nation proud.

Earlier, the First Vice President of Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), Chief Mike Umeh, congratulated Senior Imoke on his 52nd birthday, describing the Governor as a pillar of sports in the country in view of the numerous roles he played while ensuring that the nation's football team excels tremendously in all their outings and thanked him for the numerous assistance the team has enjoyed from the State.

Speaking, a representative of the players, Mr. Ibrahim Adeoye thanked the Government and the people of Cross River State for the assistance so far received by the team, assuring that with God on their side, they hope to come back home with the trophy as a mark of appreciation for the good so received from the State.

Highpoints of the visit were the presentation of a congratulatory letter and the African Champion Silver medal to the Governor.