Babangida splashes N20M on Golden Eaglets plus landed property

The Chief Servant (CS) of Niger State, Governor Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu on Tuesday doled out a total of N20M to players and officials of the Golden Eaglets as well as the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for winning the FIFA Under-17 World Cup for an unprecedented fourth
time.

The Talban Mina at a dinner banquet in honour of the team at the Hon. Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre in Minna on Tuesday as part of activities marking his 58th birthday anniversary said Nigerians should be proud of the Eaglets' stellar performance in
the UAE.

He said it was gratifying to note that the team was exemplary throughout the competition and therefore deserved to be celebrated. "We are very proud of what these youngsters have done in lifting the image of the country through their collective efforts," said The CS who doubles as chairman of the Northern Governors' Forum."With their performance, these young boys gave us a positive image throughout the world and they showed the resilience of being Nigerians."

Apart from the cash gift of N12M and N5M respectively to the players and technical crew, The CS also gave N3M cash gift to accompanying NFF's board members and officials; he also offered to gift a plot of land to each member of the team.

“We want you to remain focused and don't relent in your efforts; and please don't neglect your education which is very important," he said, advising the NFF to keep the team intact for future challenges. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Alhaji Aminu Maigari was ably represented at the event by Hon. Suleiman Yahaya-Kwande. Also in attendance were NFF board members- Hon. Shehu Adamu, Alh. Yusuf. Ahmed Fresh, Alh. Ahmad Muazu Kawu as well as. Dr. Mohammed Sanusi (Director of competitions) and Mr. Ademola Olajire (Assistant
Director, Media).

Meanwhile, Golden Eaglets have felicitated with the Chief Servant on his birthday anniversary praying for God's guidance in his future endeavours.

"We are very grateful to the Chief Servant," said Niger-State born Salihu Ali-Baba who spoke on behalf of the team." In the Holy Quran, anybody who appreciates others should be appreciated and celebrated and we thank the Chief Servant for this good gesture to us."