Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, has described the country’s football development after 63 years as phenomenal, saying the national teams at all levels were among the best in the world.
Nigerians across the world are counting their fortunes after 63 years of Independence today, and according to Eguavoen, although sports have had mixed fortunes over the years, the country’s football development could be rated as excellent.
He explained that the commitment shown by Nigeria’s men and women players at the national teams and club levels over the years has contributed in uplifting the standard of the game across board.
The former Super Eagles’ coach said that if after 63 years of Independence, Nigerian teams are being recognised as sides to beat at every major international engagement, it shows that the level of football development and organisation has grown in Nigeria.
Pointing at the abundant talents waiting to be discovered in the country, Eguavoen said that the country would continue to maintain its position among the best at every major international championship.
He called on football loving Nigerians to keep faith with the national teams, especially the Super Eagles, saying that the players need support and encouragement to serve the nation meritoriously.
“The country failed to qualify for the Qatar 2022 World Cup, but the Super Eagles bounced back immediately by qualifying for the 2024 African Cup of Nations with a game to spare.
“The players have shown commitment by honouring every match they are invited to represent the Nation. Also, the Super Falcons, despite not winning the last Women Nations Cup title, went to the World Cup and surprised the whole world by beating big teams and contending well with their opponents in the round of 16 at the Women World Cup,” he said.
He added: “Nigeria’s senior and junior national teams have won major African and world football titles over the years. Recently, Victor Osimhen and Assisat Oshoala were
nominated for the FIFA Ballon d’Or award, which shows that Nigerian football has come of age.
“At 63 years, Nigeria’s national teams and players are discussed in a positive light. They make headlines in major media outlets globally which shows that the nation’s football is not dwindling. We have to build on what is on ground to continue moving high. Our grassroots football development must keep growing. I wish Nigerians happy Independence anniversary.”
Guardian/Adukwu Williams
