Unbowed Eagles, Unbroken Spirit: Southern Governors’ Forum Salutes AFCON Bronze Heroes
The Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has showered encomiums on the Super Eagles of Nigeria following their spirited performance and Bronze Medal finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing the campaign as a victory of resilience, courage, and National pride.
In a statement made available to Global Mirror News, Governor Abiodun praised the Super Eagles for what he termed one of the most exhilarating and dominant displays at the tournament.
He noted that Nigeria remained unbeaten in regulation time throughout the competition, winning all their matches within normal play except the semi-final, which was decided on penalties.
The Governor highlighted the team’s impressive statistics, pointing out that Nigeria recorded the highest number of goals in the group stage and conceded no goals in the knockout rounds before the semi-final—an achievement he said underscored the quality, discipline, and enduring pedigree of Nigerian football.
Governor Abiodun further commended the Eagles for their mental strength and resilience, particularly their emphatic victory over Egypt in the third-place match.
He noted that the team overcame significant challenges in the semi-final against host Nation Morocco, including controversial officiating, the seizure of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s towel, and the intense hostility of the home crowd.
According to him, the Super Eagles’ performance rekindled National pride and reminded the world of Nigeria’s rich footballing heritage.
“Members of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Nigerians from all parts of our great Country are immensely proud of these gallant Eagles,” Abiodun said.
“They were not defeated by any team in regulation time. But for officiating decisions that dampened morale, they could have reached the final. Nonetheless, they rose above adversity and finished the tournament with dignity and honour.”
He added that the Super Eagles captivated Millions of Nigerians and Football lovers across Africa, restoring the flair, fearlessness, and attacking confidence that once defined Nigerian football.
“They dazzled us, fought for every ball, and reminded the world of the Super Eagles of old—creative, bold, and ruthlessly clinical. Above all, they gave Nigerians something priceless: hope and pride,” he stated.
While acknowledging that the trophy narrowly slipped away, Governor Abiodun said the semi-final exit on penalties highlighted the fine margins that often decide football matches at the highest level.
“Yes, they did not lift the cup, but penalties can go either way. What truly matters is the heart they showed, the unity they displayed, and the belief they restored in our National team,” he said.
The Ogun State Governor concluded by expressing strong optimism about the future, noting that the Super Eagles and head coach Eric Chelle have ignited fresh hope among Nigerians and laid a solid foundation for greater successes ahead.
“Our Eagles have spoken with their feet. The future is bright, and Nigeria will rise again on the continental and global stage,” he added.
