In order to assure the Super Eagles of the State government’s support and solidarity, the Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has paid a visit to Super Eagles Players Camp.
Eno’s unscheduled visit to the people’s camp in preparation for their Sunday’s African Cup of Nations qualifier against the Falcons and True Parrots of Sao Tomé and Principe was also to officially welcome the national male football team to the state.
The State Governor who guarantees the players during his visit to them at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Ikot Ekpene, NorthWest Senatorial District South South Nigeria, said as a matter of fact, this is one of the beauty of football as it brings all of us together as Nigerians.
“Such a warm fantasy, the cooperation, the unity that exists when you get out there in the field, playing as a Nation,” he said.
“That is where politicians should learn from what you guys are doing by just flying the Nigerian flag, even though you are from different clubs.”
Governor Eno used the occasion to thank the Nigerian Football Federation, NFF, for selecting the Nest of Champions as venue for the Super Eagles’ home encounter, and pledged the continuous support of the state to the success of the team.
“We welcome you very warmly to our state. As a matter of fact, this is one of the beauty of football as it brings all of us together as Nigerians, and then brings all of our players from their different clubs as they put on the Nigerian jerseys and the Nigerian spirit,” he stated.
The NFF Deputy Secretary General, Dr. Emmanuel Ikpeme who commended the Governor and his entourage for the visit said while receiving them that they are happy over the governor’s approval for the hosting of the Nigeria/Sao Tome AFCON qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Dr. Ikpeme appealed for more support in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers beginning from November this year, saying the reception of the team at the airport was topnotch and laudable.
The governor’s press unit reports that the NFF Secretary lauded the state government for maintaining high standards in building quality infrastructure, saying that the road network, hotel and the stadium are world-class facilities.
On their part, the Head Coach of the Super Eagles Team, José Peseiro and Captain of the Team, William-Troost Ekong appreciated the Akwa Ibom State Government for the hospitality the team has enjoyed in the state.