Gov. Babangida Awards N20m to Eaglets, NFF

The Governor of Niger State, Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu, doled out a total of N20m to the players and the officials of the Golden Eaglets, as well as to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), for winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup for an unprecedented fourth time. The Talban Mina at a dinner banquet in honour of the team at the Hon. Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre in Minna on November 12, 2013, Tuesday, as part of activities marking his 58th birthday anniversary, said Nigerians should be proud of the Eaglets' stellar performance in the UAE. Gov. Aliyu said it was gratifying to note that the team was exemplary throughout the competition and therefore deserved to be celebrated. "We are very proud of what these youngsters have done in lifting the image of the country through their collective efforts. "With their performance, these young boys gave us a positive image throughout the world and they showed the resilience of being Nigerians," Babangida Aliyu said. The cash gift to be shared as follows: N12m to the players, N5m - to the technical crew, N3m - to the accompanying NFF's board members and officials. The Governor also advised the NFF to keep the team intact for future challenges. Gov. Aliyu also confirmed that a plot of land may be granted to each member of the team by request. "We want you to remain focused and don't relent in your efforts; and please don't neglect your education which is very important," he said. Meanwhile, the Golden Eaglets have felicitated with Gov. Aliyu on his birthday anniversary praying for God's guidance in his future endeavours. "We are very grateful to the Chief Servant. In the Holy Quran, anybody who appreciates others should be appreciated and celebrated and we thank the Chief Servant for this good gesture to us," said Niger-State born Salihu Ali- Baba who spoke on behalf of the team.