Nigeria president rewards Super Eagles handsomely for AFCON exploits

Nigeria president Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rewarded the Super Eagles handsomely for their performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. 

After what many considered to be an underwhelming start to the tournament with a 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea, Jose Peseiro's men managed to turn things around and pick up two wins in their three group-stage games to qualify for the round of 16, before going on to reach the final of Africa's showpiece competition. 

Read: CONFIRMED: CAF reveals AFCON Best XI, 2 Bafana stars incl.! 

They were, however, unable to get their hands on the trophy after relinquishing a one-goal lead to Ivory Coast, ultimately losing the decider by two goals to one on Sunday. 

While the players may be disappointed to not have gone all the way, their efforts have been recognised and rewarded by Nigeria president Tinubu in a remarkable display of appreciation.

Upon the side's return to the country, a reception was held at the State House in the country's capital, Abuja, where they were commended for the campaign that saw them earn silver medals.

According to Report Afrique, Tinubu expressed the pride he felt for the national team, and commended the sportsmanship and the resilience the side showed to reach the final of AFCON 2023. 

He is said to have also handed each member of the squad an apartment as well as a plot of land.

They were also each made Members of the Order of the Niger (MON), which is said to be one of the country's highest honours. 

Nigeria Football Federation president Ibrahim Gusau, meanwhile, has expressed his delight at the way the team was welcomed upon their return home. 

"This is a great day for all of us; you can see how the president received the team, and we are highly elated to say that we have been honoured with MON, to all our entire team, including myself and my general secretary," he said, per Premium Times Nigeria.

Read: BANNED: AFCON top scorer hit with shock punishment 

"That is a great thing that has happened to this country. That shows that Nigerians are really happy, especially the president.

"We thank God for the support given to this team, and by the grace of God, we will continue to do our best to ensure that we make Nigerians happy through football."

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