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In a stirring speech that encapsulated the spirit of resilience and unity, Vice President Shettima addressed the national football team in the wake of their narrow defeat to Ivory Coast in the AFCON final.
His words, a blend of encouragement and national pride, reminded the team and the nation alike that the journey of competition is fraught with both triumphs and setbacks, but it is the courage to continue that truly defines greatness.
Shettima's address was not just a consolation but a clarion call to look ahead with optimism and pride.
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16:48 - 12.02.2024
7 Players who failed to perform in Nigeria’s AFCON 2023 final defeat to Ivory Coast
In an overall disappointing performance by the Super Eagles, these players stood out as the least impressive in the Nigerian team during the AFCON 2023 final against Ivory Coast
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16:35 - 12.02.2024
Ahmed Musa celebrates Super Eagles AFCON journey
Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa celebrates Nigeria's AFCON journey.
Celebrating Resilience and Unity
In a speech posted on the Vice President’s Twitter account, he wrote: “Yes, we have tried our best and be rest assured that there is always the next time.
"And Benjamin May, former president of Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia says it must be borne in mind that the tragedy of life lies in.
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“No, you are born. The tragedy lies in having nobody to reach. If it is a calamity, if you die with dreams unfulfilled, but it is a calamity not to drink. It is not a disaster to be unable to capture your idea, but it is a disaster to have no idea, to capture, not failure or low."
“Some countries, Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia exited 3 weeks ago. We have come this far so close. Be rest assured that we will come back, soaring stronger in the next dispensation.
"There is a cause for celebration. We are the second of the best nations in Africa. You have no cause to be sad. We have every cause to celebrate the nation."
Shettima's speech highlighted the team's journey and their achievement as the second-best nation in Africa, a significant accomplishment that unites the country across all divides.
He reminded the players and the nation of the unifying power of sports, especially how the Super Eagles' performance brings together people of all races and religions in solidarity.
“The source of our national unity is when the super eagles play, no race, no religion, no religion, you unite the nation, the nation is in solidarity with you. Be rest assured that your names will be written in court in the Annals of contemporary football history in Nigeria."
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In conveying the best wishes from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima assured the players of the nation's pride in their sacrifices and dedication.
He acknowledged the disappointment of losing within the final 15 minutes but emphasized the broader victory for Africa and the spirit of unity the tournament fostered.
“So please, gentleman, there is every cause for us to rejoice and celebrate with one another. There is every force for us to unite. Look at our mistakes and make amends in the next dispensation."
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