By Suhaib Auwal
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has lauded the Super Eagles for their crucial 2-0 victory over Rwanda in a must-win World Cup qualifier in Kigali on Friday.
The win reignites Nigeria’s hopes of securing a spot at the global tournament after a challenging start to the qualifiers.
Delivering a message from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the NSC chairman Malam Dikko commended the team’s resilience and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification bid.
"You have done us proud today. You have shown that true Nigerian never-say-die spirit. On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and Nigerian football faithful, I congratulate you."
The NSC, under the leadership of Chairman Malam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, played a pivotal role in ensuring the team’s success.
A special planning committee was set up months in advance in collaboration with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to prepare for the crucial fixture.
An advance party was dispatched four days before match day to mobilize Nigerian supporters in Kigali, arrange logistics, and minimize Rwanda’s home advantage.
Additionally, a chartered aircraft carrying more supporters was flown in to create a dominant Nigerian presence at the stadium.
With the NSC setting a target of winning six consecutive matches to secure qualification, the Kigali encounter was seen as a turning point in the campaign. The significance of the victory was evident in the exuberant celebrations led by Malam Dikko, Hon. Olopade, and other dignitaries, including NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, former Sports Minister Chief Sunday Dare, and members of the National Assembly.
Victor Osimhen’s brace secured the victory, prompting scenes of jubilation among Nigerian supporters and officials alike. Following the final whistle, NSC leadership and other dignitaries joined the team on the pitch, leading celebratory dances before heading to the dressing room to personally congratulate the players.
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