AFCON: Shaibu Wants Super Eagles To Embrace ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’

Comrade Philip Shaibu, director-general and chief executive officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), has extended his congratulations to Nigeria’s Super Eagles on their rapid qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) round of 16 in Morocco.

He commended the players’ patriotism, commitment, and tenacity following their 3-2 victory over Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles on Saturday, which secured Nigeria’s place in the knockout phase with a game in hand.

“I must salute the fighting spirit of the Super Eagles,” Shaibu stated. “They have clearly put the disappointment of missing the 2026 World Cup behind them. Winning these two consecutive games is evident of that. I also congratulate the NFF leadership for their dedication to the players and the technical crew.”

He added, “Let me also congratulate the new captain of the Super Eagles, Ndidi, on his first goal as captain of the team. It’s an indicator of good things to come.”

The Director General further encouraged the Eagles to maintain their focus and praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support for sports development in Nigeria.

“The job is not complete yet; the target is to win a fourth continental title,” he remarked. “As we all know, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu takes a keen interest in the country’s sports sector, which he has demonstrated by allocating funds to the sports industry, particularly football. We also recall how he rewarded the triumphant Super Falcons and D’Tigresses. These gestures send a strong message to our sportsmen and women across the board.”

Philip Shaibu also affirmed the support of the NIS management and staff for the Super Eagles, noting that the institute will continue its core mission of nurturing excellent coaches who will, in turn, produce outstanding players and athletes for future competitions.