Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, bestowed honors, plots of land, and flats upon the national football team on Tuesday as a recognition of their commendable journey to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, despite a 2-1 loss to hosts Ivory Coast in Abidjan on Sunday.
President Tinubu expressed his pride in the team’s resilience, presenting each player with the prestigious Member of the Order of the Niger, one of the country’s highest honors. Additionally, the players were awarded a flat and a piece of land in the region around the capital.
Welcoming the team at the presidential villa in Abuja, Tinubu acknowledged the disappointment of the defeat but urged unity and resilience. “Let this passing event not disperse us but bring us together to work harder,” he said. He encouraged Nigerian youths to pursue their dreams, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to making those dreams come true.
Addressing the economic challenges faced by the nation, Tinubu acknowledged the hardships and hoped that the team’s remarkable journey would provide some solace. Since assuming office, Tinubu has implemented measures such as ending a fuel subsidy and currency controls, resulting in economic repercussions.
Despite the economic difficulties, Tinubu urged Nigerians to find inspiration in the achievements of their football team. “To those cherished Nigerian youths expressing their gifts in communities, drawing lines in the sand as they play football in their humble rectangles of play, you can be our heroes tomorrow, do not relent in your pursuit.”
The excitement leading up to the final was palpable, with many Nigerians hoping for a victory to lift spirits amid the economic crisis. The health ministry in Lagos even issued advice to fans, emphasizing the importance of staying calm, taking breaks, staying hydrated, and being prepared for emergencies during the highly anticipated match.