11th November, 2013
Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets have expressed excitement over the cash rewards they received from President Goodluck Jonathan for winning the 2013 FIFA U- 17 World Cup which was held in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
President Jonathan rewarded the players, coaches and backroom staff of the Eaglets with cash prizes at a dinner held for them in Abuja yesterday.
While receiving the Nigerian flag bearers at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Aso Rock, the President gave each of the players N2 million, while the head coach, Manu Garba got N3 million, and N2.5 million each was given to the two assistant coaches, Nduka Ugbade and Emmanuel Amunike.
A sum of N500,000 was given to the team’s doctor, physiotherapist, secretary, and the Chief Technical Officer each, while the Team’s Coordinator, Media Officer and Curator were given N300,000 each.
An elated Kelechi Iheanacho, winner of the Most Valuable Player award at the championship, praised the President for rewarding their effort. Iheanacho, who also got the Adidas Golden Ball award at the tourney said: “It means a lot to me personally because apart from the two awards I got from FIFA, I was also rewarded by Mr. President. I am glad we were recognised and given cash rewards in Abuja,” he told Brila FM early today.
Nigerian goalkeeper, Dele Alampasu also thanked the President for rewarding them both in kind and in cash.
The Ondo state born goalie opined that the rewards would motivate the players to give their best for their fatherland when next they have the opportunity to represent Nigeria in future tournaments.
Assistant coach of the team, Emmanuel Amuneke in his comment commended Jonathan’s gesture for the recognition given to the technical crew, adding that it shows that it is good to serve ones’ fatherland.
—Bamidele Olowosagba