President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, NOC, Engineer Habu Gumel has paid tributes to two national teams, the Flying Eagles of Nigeria for winning the African Youth Championship trophy for a record seventh time while also doffing his hat for Nigeria’s men’s Basketball team, D’Tigers for winning the inaugural 4-Nation Challenge Series in South Africa.

HAPPY BUNCH … D’Tigers savouring their moment of glory. They are up against Cameroon today.

Gumel who is also an executive Committee member of the International Olympic Committee, IOC, said that it was heart-warming to see Nigerian teams standing on the podium to the envy of many other African countries.

The NOC President who was overwhelmed with the sterling performances of the two teams urged other national teams to borrow a leaf from the all-conquering Eaglets and D’Tigers to ensure that Nigeria climbs back to the zenith of sports in Africa and the world. ‘’It is heart-warming that these gladdening performances are coming  towards to the All Africa Games and the Rio 2016 Olympics. It is an indication of what to expect from Team Nigeria. Let the boys not relent and rest on their oars. There are more huddles ahead but  I know that with dedication, hardwork and their good coaches, victory shall be guaranteed”. Gumel  said.

The Flying Eagles of Nigeria overcame all odds in the finals of the African Youth Championship to beat host Senegal to win the trophy with glittering performances from the players which has given so much hope that Nigerian football  would regain its dominance in the continent and the world.

Also,  D’Tigers clawed their way to victory in South Africa beating Mozambique72-59 in the final.