Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday paid tribute to the Super Eagles for their outstanding performance at the AFCON 2023 tournament.
Led by coach Jose Peseiro, the team secured a commendable second place overall, narrowly missing out on the trophy to host nation Ivory Coast.
Despite the heartbreak of a 2-1 defeat in the final, the Super Eagles were lauded for their dedication, resilience, and exceptional gameplay throughout the competition.
In a ceremony held at the Council Chamber in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, President Tinubu bestowed various national honours upon the team, including Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), flats in the Federal Capital Territory, and parcels of land.
Addressing the team, coach, crew, and management, President Tinubu commended their hard work and unwavering commitment.
He recognised the challenges they had encountered and overcome, ultimately leading to their remarkable performance at the tournament.
“We must not be disheartened by this recent setback but instead come together and strive even harder. As a nation, we are bound by the green-white-green banner of resilience, joy, hope, duty, and unyielding love,” remarked the president.
Nigeria had advanced to the final undefeated, topping their group which included Ivory Coast, whom they defeated 1-0 in the group stage.
They progressed past Cameroon and Angola in the round of 16 and quarter-finals respectively before overcoming South Africa on penalties in the semi-finals.
Although they initially took the lead in the final, they ultimately conceded as the Ivorians secured their third crown.