President Bola Tinubu has given the green light for the release of N12 billion to settle longstanding debts owed to the Super Eagles and various national sports teams. This monumental decision comes as a huge relief to the players and coaches who have been grappling with financial uncertainty.
The landmark announcement was made via a statement released by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Center. The fund allocation is set to cover a plethora of arrears, including 15 months’ worth of salaries for the senior national team coaches, outstanding allowances, and commitments owed to the senior men’s and women’s teams, as well as the Under-20 national team.
In a statement, the President affirmed, “I have approved the payment of N12 billion in outstanding arrears for Nigeria’s national sports teams, notably the Super Eagles and others. This comprehensive disbursement encompasses clearing the backlog of salaries owed to senior national team coaches spanning over 15 months, settlement of outstanding allowances, and commitments due to the senior national teams, women’s teams, and the Under-20 national team.”
The timing of this financial intervention couldn’t be more crucial as the Super Eagles gear up for their upcoming participation in the Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to kick off later this month.
Tinubu’s prompt and decisive action in addressing the financial hardships faced by the national sports teams underscores the significant role of government support in fostering a conducive environment for sporting excellence. This move not only bolsters the morale of the athletes but also reflects a commitment to upholding Nigeria’s sporting prominence on the global stage.
The President’s proactive approach towards ensuring the welfare and financial stability of the country’s sporting ambassadors is indeed commendable, instilling optimism and renewed vigor within the sports fraternity.
As the N12 billion lifeline sets the stage for a resurgence of enthusiasm and focus among the national teams, it reaffirms a promising trajectory for Nigerian sports, catalyzing a rejuvenated sense of pride and determination among the athletes and coaches.
