By Destiny Temi Jemiriayegbe
The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), His Excellency Comrade Philip Shaibu, has commended the Super Eagles of Nigeria, the technical crew, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, for what he described as a successful and inspiring outing during the Unity Cup tournament and the international friendly match against Poland.
Shaibu, who was among the distinguished guests at the Nigeria–Poland Football Match Viewing Party held at the VIP Lounge of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, praised the team’s performance, resilience, and determination, noting that the Super Eagles once again demonstrated the talent, fighting spirit, and football quality for which Nigeria is respected globally.
According to the immediate past Deputy Governor of Edo State, the Unity Cup initiative and the football diplomacy engagement involving Nigeria and Poland have further showcased the unifying power of sports and the importance of football as a tool for national pride, international cooperation, and youth inspiration.
He particularly applauded Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye for his commitment to grassroots sports development and for creating platforms that promote national unity, international friendship, and positive youth engagement in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The Super Eagles deserve commendation for their performance and for representing Nigeria with pride. I also congratulate the coaching crew for their efforts and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Adeboye, for his dedication to initiatives that continue to elevate the image of Nigerian sports both locally and internationally,” Shaibu stated.
While celebrating the team’s achievements, the NIS Director General stressed the need for improved concentration and discipline throughout the duration of matches, especially during additional time and crucial closing stages when games can easily be won or lost.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 2-2 draw against Poland, Shaibu observed that the Super Eagles had done enough to secure victory after taking the lead through Paul Onuachu’s penalty before conceding a late equalizer.
“Football is a game of ninety minutes and beyond. The lesson from the Poland match is that players must remain focused and disciplined until the final whistle. At the highest level, a momentary lapse in concentration can change the outcome of a game.”
He encouraged the players and coaching staff to treat the late equalizer as a learning opportunity and to continue building a team capable of competing successfully against the best football nations in the world.
“The quality is there, the talent is there, and the commitment is there. What is required is maintaining concentration from the beginning to the end of every match. If we continue on this path, Nigerian football will achieve even greater success in future competitions.”
Shaibu further expressed confidence in the future of the national team, urging Nigerians to continue supporting the Super Eagles as they prepare for upcoming international assignments.
He reiterated the National Institute for Sports’ commitment to supporting policies, programmes, and partnerships that will strengthen sports development, talent nurturing, and international sporting relations for the benefit of Nigeria and future generations of athletes.
Signed:
Ben Ogbemudia,
S. A. Media,
Office of the Director General and Chief Executive Officer National Institute for Sports.