Governor Liyel Imoke had to travel to the UAE, to “finish what he had started”

It was a proud Governor who aboard the Emirates Airline that brought the team home said the people of Cross River State were humbled by this great achievement done them by the Golden Eaglets. He went down memory lane and expressed happiness for taking a decision to host and back the boys from inception.

“We believed in them, invested in them and we are now reaping bountifully”  he said. In the same vein he quickly reminded that there was still work to be done. “……Don’t forget that we still have an unfinished business this weekend in Calabar against the Ethiopians. After that we can put our celebration in top gear”

The Honourable Minister of Sports Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi on his part was to say “ It is not our fault. We are Nigerians”

He has decided to put in motion a machinery that will help to protect the boys from foreign scouts who may end up buying them into slavery. “ ….We must assume the role of parents. Yes they need money as most of them are bread winners in their families. They need houses and whatever they can get, but what they need most is protection and proper counseling to guarantee their future.

“…The moment we get back home we must sit down with the NFF and plan ahead. You will agree with me that this is the future of our football and we must handle them with care,” he said.

If you see any man wearing a permanent and infectious smile since the boys won the cup, then that person is Alhaji Aminu Maigari, President of the Nigeria Football Federation.

“ Mr Paul, we thank God. This is a result of hard work and perseverance. I thank Mr President, Governor Liyel Imoke, the Honourable Sports Minister and all Nigerians who supported us on the way to this historic feat.

“I thank my colleagues on the board and the management staff.

“I thank the boys and their handlers for remaining focused throughout their assignment” Alhaji Maigari said, recounting how he was a centre of attraction within FIFA circles. “ it was well done Nigeria…….well done Nigeria throughout’………….” He said