*Congratulate Troost-Ekong on Most Valuable Player Award
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Despite losing 1-2 to host nation, Cote d’Ivoire, at the finals of the 34th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), MTN has heaped praises on the Super Eagles of Nigeria for their exceptional performance throughout the tournament.
The company also congratulated the captain of the team, William Troost-Ekong, on his excellent performance and inspired leadership, which earned him the ‘Most Valuable Player’ (MVP) of the tournament award.
CEO of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, who expressed admiration for the team said: “While the coveted AFCON title eluded us this time, the Super Eagles have undoubtedly made Nigeria proud with their remarkable journey in the tournament. We salute their resilience, dedication and can-do spirit.
The team exhibited extraordinary determination, skill and sportsmanship throughout the tournament, displaying unwavering commitment to the pride and passion that Nigerian football represents. The captain, William Troost-Ekong also exhibited rare leadership qualities and masterful display on the field of play, which earned him a well-deserved MVP award. For all these and many more, we congratulate them.”
Going a step further, Toriola said that as the official and exclusive communications partner to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), MTN recognizes, and appreciates the dedication of the coaching staff, players and the entire support team whose relentless efforts brought the Super Eagles to the final.
“As a brand committed to the growth and development of Nigerian sports, MTN Nigeria will continue to stand by the team and support their aspirations in their future endeavors. We remain dedicated to fueling the passion for football in Nigeria and promoting the growth of the sport at all levels,” he concluded.
MTN Nigeria has been a staunch supporter of Nigerian football for over two decades.
Similarly, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti congratulated Super Eagles on their sterling performance against all odds.
Otti said that despite losing to the national team of the host nation, the Super Eagles have succeeded in making Nigeria proud having come short of lifting the trophy.
“The players gave their best and succeeded in further strengthening the nation’s image as a formidable force in African football,” he said.
Otti also specially praised the three Abia indigenes in the Super Eagles team – Samuel Chukwueze, Kenneth Omeruo and Frank Ogochukwu Onyeka – for contributing to the exploits of the national team at AFCON 2023.
The Abia State governor thanked Nigerians for the massive support they gave to the Super Eagles, and commended the technical crew and the NFF for their efforts which helped to take Nigeria to the final match.
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also hailed the Super Eagles for their performance at the AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire.
Sanwo-Olu said the Super Eagles despite losing at the final of the AFCON to the host nation, Cote d’Ivoire, deserved commendation for their superb performance in the competition.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the Super Eagles fought gallantly to advance to the final of the AFCON, noting that the participation of the team in the final on Sunday is a testament to the determination, resilience and commitment of the Super Eagles to the competition.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, commended the Super Eagles of Nigeria on their dogged performance at the AFCON 2023.
Governor Oborevwori urged the Super Eagles not to be deterred by their AFCON final loss, adding that the team played well and wished them better luck in subsequent competitions.
“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the entire officials and coaching crew on their superlative performance at the African Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire.”
In his message, the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, commended the Super Eagles for their resilience and teamwork despite conceding the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations title to the host nation, Côte d’Ivoire.
Obaseki joined other football enthusiasts, fans and supporters to watch the first half of the game at the Ring Road viewing centre, one of the venues set up by the state government across the State.
The governor and other top government functionaries were also at the Garrick Memorial School at Ekenwan Road, another viewing centre set up in the State, to watch the second half of the match.
He said, “It was a very interesting match and you can tell that our boys played their hearts out but the Ivorians have the benefit of the home crowd. Our boys who are just 11 on the field of play, played against 60,000 people. They put in their best but it was not their day.
“We should be hopeful. They did their best and got to the finals. We could have won the cup; that means we have what it takes to be African Champions and next time around, we could win.”
Governor Obaseki also commended Nigerians and Edo residents for coming out massively to support the Super Eagles, noting “I pray that this spirit of commitment by the players and other Nigerians will continue so that we can celebrate more wins.”
