Naira rain as Nigerians motivate Flying Eagles ahead Niger Republic clash
By Tosin Omojola
he U-20 Boys National Team, the Flying Eagles, to secure an AFCON 2025 ticket at the expense of Niger Republic on Saturday, well-meaning Nigerians from all walks of life have contributed funds to motivate the squad toward victory.
Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Barau Jibrin, has rewarded the team’s efforts so far with N2 million.
Super Eagles and Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who rose through the Flying Eagles’ ranks, showed his support by donating N5 million to the team.
Chairman of Crystal Sapphire Ltd, Frank Peters, contributed N1.5 million and pledged an additional significant sum if the team defeats their Nigerien counterparts in Saturday’s semi-final. Additionally, a football community member, Mr. Victor Apugo, donated N1 million and promised to add another N2 million if the Flying Eagles prevail over Niger Republic in the semi-final match.
Meanwhile, Switzerland-based Nigerian coach Adedeji Adeyemi Anthony fulfilled his pledge of N1 million following the team’s victory over the Young Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire. Mavlon FC Chairman, Barrister Kenneth Agadugba, deposited N2 million, with a pledge to increase it to N12 million if the team reaches the tournament’s grand finale.
Earlier on Thursday, a senior staff member of the Nigeria Football Federation donated N1 million, while another individual in the football community, who prefers anonymity, gave the seven-time African champions N1.5 million.
The Flying Eagles are set to face Niger Republic in the semi-final on Saturday at 2 pm Nigeria time. A victory will secure their place in the final and earn them a ticket to next year’s AFCON U20 finals.
