The Nigeria Football Federation has congratulated the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, on his 52nd birthday, which falls on Wednesday, July 10, 2013.
In a letter of congratulation sent to the Cross River State number one man, NFF President, Alhaji Aminu Maigari, hailed the governor and his administration’s immense support for the National Teams, particularly the Super Eagles and the Golden Eaglets, over the years.
“It is on record that the wonderful support and hospitality that Your Excellency, your administration and the good people of Cross River State provided for the Super Eagles and the Golden Eaglets propelled both teams to qualify for African championships held in South Africa and Morocco respectively earlier this year,” Maigari noted.
The Super Eagles found a comfortable home in the Garden City as they pursued qualification ticket for the 29th Africa Cup of Nations, which they secured in glorious fashion with a 6-1 pounding of Liberia at the UJ Esuene Stadium in November last year. Early this year, the Eagles were even more glorious as they triumphed at the Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa, giving Nigeria the coveted trophy after 19 years.
The Golden Eaglets also made home in Calabar as they campaigned in qualification series for the African U-17 Championship in Morocco. The team won all six qualifying matches home and away and finished runner-up at the African U-17 Championship finals to qualify as one of Africa’s flag-bearers at the FIFA U-17 World Cup, taking place in
United Arab Emirates between 17th October – 8th November this year.
“No doubt, you are a huge pillar for the youth of this country, and we are of the firm belief that Your Excellency and your administration will continue to give immense support for Nigeria football in the years ahead,” concluded Maigari.
