29th November, 2015
With the travails of his mother over, Chief Coach of Nigeria’s U-23 Dream Team, Samson Siasia says his mind is now focused on winning the Olympic ticket for the country in Senegal.
Siasia ‘s mother, Mrs Ogere, regained freedom Saturday after days in the den of her abductors in Bayelsa state. Siasia said that her release which was made possible by the police is a welcome development.
An elated Siasia who could not hide his emotions, said he feels relieved knowing that his mother is now back in the comfort of their home, and the family is now relieved that she was released unhurt .
“Words can’t express how I feel. All I want to say here is thank you to all Nigerians especially the NFF who stood by me and my family in our trying times. It has not been easy but by His grace we have overcome. For me all I can say now is, based on the support shown me and my family, all I can do to repay Nigerians is to go out there and pick an Olympic ticket for the country, ” the website of Nigeria Football Federation, NFF quoted Siasia to have said.
Coach Siasia said he is not in the know if any ransom was paid, but as long as his mother was back home, his joy had no limit.
The Dream Team VI begin their quest for a ticket to Rio at the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations Senegal 2015 with their first game against Group B rivals Mali at the 5,000 capacity Caroline Faye Stadium in Mbour. The game gets on at exactly 19.45 (CAT) on Sunday.