The Nigerian leader, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, this evening splashed over N31 million on the home-based Nigerian senior national football team that battled to bronze at the recent African Nations Championship (CHAN) in South Africa.

Announcing the reward at a Presidential Reception for the team at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Jonathan described it as “a token of our appreciation for the heroic efforts of these gallant patriots.” The details are as follows:

i. Players - N1,000,000 each

ii. Head Coach - N1,500.000

iii. The 3 Assistant coaches - N1,000,000 each

iv. Team Secretary - N500,000

v. Team Doctor - N500,000

vi. Team Physiotherapist - N500,000

vii. Chief Technical Officer - N500,000

viii. Team Coordinator - N500,000

ix. Team Media Officer - N500,000

x. Curator - N500,000

Below is part of the President’s speech at the occasion attended by Vice President Namadi Sambo and other top government officials:

“I am delighted to receive the Super Eagles of Nigeria, who did the nation proud with their brilliant performance at the recently concluded 2014 Orange Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) in South Africa.

“The team’s impressive performance adds to a memorable season for Nigerian football, starting with victories at both the 2013 African Cup of Nations and the FIFA Under - 17 World Cup competitions.

“I am particularly proud of this team, which, even though they placed 3rd at the Championship, exhibited an uncommon degree of resilience, discipline, commitment and patriotism throughout the competition. This is even more noteworthy considering that this is the first time that Nigeria is qualifying for this particular championship.

“My dear Super Eagles, I keenly followed your performance from the group stage up to the last 3rd place match. I noted that you epitomised the true never-say-die Nigerian spirit, especially in the match against Morocco’s Atlas Lions where you came from a 3-goal deficit to win the match against all expectations.

“You may not have won the championship, but you performed gallantly, competed fairly and made all Nigerians proud. You also produced the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and, today, some of you are being sought after by renowned football clubs around the world. As the coach has confirmed, some of you may make our team to the FIFA World Cup in June this year.

“Significantly, your exploits at the Championship further demonstrated the fact that the efforts being put into rebranding and re-invigorating the Nigerian Football League are yielding positive results.

“Although there is still much more work to be done, it is gratifying to note that, today, our league is ranked among the best in Africa.

“On behalf of all Nigerians, I would like to specially congratulate each and every member of the team for your remarkable achievement. The glory and honour which you have brought our fatherland is greatly appreciated. You are a credit to Nigeria, your clubs, and your families.

“Let me encourage you all to remain committed. To take your game to greater heights, you must not forgo the discipline and all other qualities you displayed and the experience and exposure you have gained from the competition.

“Let me also commend the technical team for their dedication in preparing this team for this commendable result. It is evident that we are reaping the dividends of our investments in the sports sector.

“The Supporters Club deserves special commendation for the unflagging inspiration they continue to provide our national teams.

“I will like to seize this opportunity to assure you all that our administration will continue to give maximum support to our sportsmen and women to enable them optimally realise their potentials for excellence on the international stage.”

•Photo shows President Jonathan and Vice President Namadi Sambo in a group photograph with the CHAN Eagles.

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