AFCON: Peller Congratulates Nigerians on Super Eagles’ Victory

A former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Shina Peller, has congratulated Nigerians following the Super Eagles victory over Bafana Bafana of South Africa at the semi-final match played on Wednesday.

The victory means the Super Eagles will now face the host nation, Elephant of Cote d’iVoire in the final match on Sunday.

The former lawmaker also commended the leadership attribute of the Captain of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, William Troost-Ekong, describing it as exemplary.

He added that Captain Ekong has the leadership ability to observe his colleagues, communicate with them in different ways, charge, correct and encourage them to press on in each match played.

Peller also seized the avenue to call on the Nigerian government at all levels to create a more enabling environment for citizens to thrive in their various businesses and fields.

He said: “I congratulate all Nigerians home and in the diaspora on the Super Eagles’ victory against Bafana bafana of South Africa at the semi final match of the 2023 African Cup of Nations played yesterday, which consequently qualifies us for the final match.

“I commend the entire team of the Super Eagles for their resilience and courage so far.

“Specially, I must acknowledge and commend the impressive leadership traits demonstrated by the captain of the team, William Troost-Ekong. From the beginning of the tournament to our last match, Ekong exhibited a commendable leadership attribute that is worth borrowing a leaf from.

“He wouldn’t stop communicating to his colleagues on the field with his eyes, voice and body gesture charging, correcting and encouraging them to press on.

“Another interesting point I noticed about his leadership quality is his ability to observe each of his colleagues as each match went on, with a view to making relevant suggestions to the coach where and when necessary.

“Our head coach, Jose Peseiro, confirmed this when he publicly admitted that it was Ekong that advised him to substitute Frank Onyeka in the 87th minute during our encounter with Angola having noticed that the midfielder had an injury he could not shake off. Ekong felt there was a need to change him for another person, and he wasted no time in letting the coach know this. Interestingly, the coach trusted his judgment and did as advised. That was leadership par excellence.”