The Chairman, House Committee on Sports, Youth and Information, Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Rukayat Shittu, on Tuesday visited the Super Eagles training camp, reaffirming national support for the team as they prepare for the knockout stage of the ongoing competition.
This was contained in a post on her official social media pages and monitored by Just Event Online TV
Hon. Shittu said her visit was driven by a sense of national duty and solidarity, noting that she engaged the players not only as a public office holder but as a Nigerian who understands the symbolic importance of the national team to millions of citizens at home and in the diaspora.
While commending the Super Eagles for already securing qualification to the Round of 16, the lawmaker stressed that advancement alone should not be the ultimate goal.
“Qualification is not the destination. This team carries the hopes, pride and expectations of a nation that believes not just in participation, but in winning the trophy,” she said.
During the visit, Hon. Shittu interacted with key players, including Ademola Lookman, the reigning African Player of the Year, whom she described as calm, focused and reflective of the growing maturity within the squad. She also met star striker Victor Osimhen, praising him as one of the finest footballers in the world and Nigeria’s “goal king.”
The visit coincided with Osimhen’s birthday, an occasion Hon. Shittu said she was pleased to share with the striker. She offered prayers for his long life, good health and greater success, expressing hope that his goals would continue to lift the spirit of the nation.
According to her, beyond individual talents, the most impressive feature of the camp was the unity, discipline and quiet determination displayed by the players.
“These are the qualities of a team that understands the weight of history and the privilege of wearing the green, white, green,” she noted.
Hon. Shittu said she urged the players to believe in their collective strength, adding that Nigerians expect not only the Africa Cup of Nations title, but also individual honours such as the tournament’s best player and highest goal scorer.
“These ambitions are not unrealistic. They reflect the quality, talent and hunger present in this squad,” she said.
She concluded by wishing the Super Eagles continued strength and confidence, assuring them of the nation’s unwavering support. “The nation is watching. The nation is praying. And the nation is standing firmly behind you,” she added.
