By Emmanuel Afonne
The Chairman of the Nationwide Sports activities Fee (NSC) Malam Shehu Dikko, has charged the Tremendous Eagles to win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco as compensation to Nigerians for the crew’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Dikko gave the cost on Monday in Abuja whereas addressing sports activities stakeholders on the sidelines of the Annual Basic Assembly (AGM) of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC).
He mentioned President Bola Tinubu had directed that the Tremendous Eagles should channel the frustration of lacking the World Cup right into a renewed dedication to raise the continental title.
“The message from Mr President may be very clear. The Tremendous Eagles should do all the things doable to win the AFCON and compensate Nigerians for not qualifying for the 2026 World Cup,” Dikko mentioned.
The NSC chairman cautioned in opposition to complacency, stressing that robust performances within the group stage should not distract the crew from its final goal.
“We’ve got seen this occur earlier than; you possibly can play very effectively within the group stage and lose focus within the knockout rounds.
“That lesson should information us this time,” he mentioned.
Dikko famous that the crew was at present effectively positioned and understood the duty forward, including that ending second wouldn’t be thought-about success.
“The one method we will say we’re profitable this time is that if we do higher than final time.
“The goal is to raise the trophy,” he mentioned.
He recommended the Tremendous Eagles for his or her current performances, describing their final outing as considered one of their finest shows in a very long time.
The NSC boss urged them to stay disciplined and centered all through the competitors.
Dikko additionally dismissed considerations over the welfare of the crew, assuring that the top coach and officers have been being paid as at when due.
“There is no such thing as a challenge with the coach’s wage as a result of funds are updated.
“The main target now’s soccer and delivering the AFCON trophy for Nigeria,” he mentioned.
He reaffirmed the dedication of the Federal Authorities and the NSC to offer full assist to the crew because the event progressed in Morocco. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
