2013 Africa Cup of Nations in Johannesburg, South Africa - Nigeria's President Goodluck Jonathan Sunday congratulated the Super Eagles and all Nigerians on the country’s ''inspiring victory'' in the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in Johannesburg, South Africa.
In a statement obtained by PANA here, President Jonathan thanked Coach Stephen Keshi and all members of the team who have worked very hard and played with great focus, dedication, artistry and patriotism to make Nigeria the proud champions of Africa once again after 19 years of setbacks in the competition.
The Nigerian leader said the team’s ''amazing transformation'' from rank outsiders to champions is a clear manifestation of the even greater successes the country can achieve in all other fields of human endeavour, if all Nigerians come together and devote their immense collective energies and resources to supporting the implementation of his Administration’s Agenda for National Transformation.
''Therefore, as the entire nation celebrates Nigeria’s remarkable triumph in South Africa, President Jonathan urges all Nigerians to imbibe the positive lessons of the Super Eagles’ success because the fulfilment of the country’s immense potentials for greatness will be more speedily attained if more Nigerians resolve to emulate the team’s exemplary unity of purpose, dedication, commitment and devotion to service of the nation,'' the statement said.
President Jonathan expressed the belief that having conquered Africa, the new Super Eagles can go on to achieve even greater glory at the World Cup in Brazil next year.
He assured the team that it will receive every necessary support and encouragement from the government for the World Cup.
Nigeria, which was not among the pre-tournament favourites, beat Burkina Faso 1-0 to lift the trophy, its third since the tournament started in 1957.
Pana 10/02/2013