Date: 2013-02-16

Spurred by the superlative performance of Super Eagles at the just concluded Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa, the Kwara State Pillar of Sports, Chief Donatus Agu Ejidike has described the feat as a national rebirth that would open a new vista for the nation in the field of sports.

Chief Ejidike commended the entire squad for their patriotic outing in the face of criticism in the early stage of the competition, as they were able to rise to the occasion and prove critics wrong at the end of the day.

The Pillar of Sports appreciated President Goodluck Jonathan for the national honours and rewards accorded the winning team, saying it would further spur them to doing more for their fatherland in future tournaments.

Chief Ejidike urged coach Stephen Keshi to remain focused and ignore whatever anybody might have said since God has vindicated him.

“I urge Keshi to sustain the spirit of nationalism and do more for Nigeria. Let him keep the boys together and shop for more legs. He should not be deterred because he has won the hearts of many Nigerians”.

Ejidike however called on the Federal Government to reward other national athletes and players of other sports who have won laurels for the nation the same way as for the Super Eagles to give them a sense of belonging.

He also added that the players and athletes should be encouraged at every stage and not until they win medal

The Pillar of Sports said that with the victory in South Africa, Nigeria has taken back her lost glory and occupy her rightful position in Africa as giant and number one in the continent.

Ejidike called on Nigeria Football Federation, NFF to resolve all wrangling and chart a new course in making Nigerian football great again.