Fans Seek Consolidation Of Nation’s Triumph

Football fans in Ebonyi State have urged the relevant authorities to use the country’s 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph in South Africa to redress issues militating against football’s growth.

The Super Eagles on Sunday beat the Stallions of Burkina Faso 1-0 to clinch victory after 19 years of trophy drought.

Sparks of celebrations were recorded throughout Abakaliki as fans, both young and old moved into the streets to celebrate all through the night.

Director of Sports in Ebonyi, Dr Emmanuel Utobo, commended the Eagles for the victory, noting that it showed the country was on the right path to reclaim its football glory.

“The victory though surprising, is a soothing balm to the long years of agony of soccer fans in the country as result of declining state of its football.

“We should, however, know that the revamping process of our football is not yet over as more work needs to be done,” he said.

A Football Administrator, Chief Jude Anigbo, attributed the success in South Africa to the peaceful atmosphere prevailing in football administration in the country.

“Since all warring parties in the Nigerian Football Association (NFA) leadership debacle sheathed their swords, the Aminu Maigari-led board has concentrated on discharging its duties.

“This victory should be used as a springboard to take necessary actions to ensure the country returns fully to its football glory days,” he said.

A Footballer, Chima Nwali, called on Coach Stephen Keshi to jettison all plans of quitting his job but conclude his rebuilding process.

“Keshi has succeeded at an early stage of this process and should not listen to any advice to quit when the ovation is loudest.

“Abandoning the team at this tender stage will allow another coach to reap the fruits of his labour, he should cooperate with the NFA to solve problems bedeviling our football,” he said.

Chief Ifeanyi Ikpa, a Timber Merchant, called for a stop on experimentation as the country has got the nucleus of a strong national team.

“This team is an embodiment of character, commitment and tenacity as only areas of noticeable defect should be corrected.

“Attention must shift immediately to the World Cup qualifiers as over stretching the celebrations might prove costly,” he said.

Mrs Grace Udo, a civil servant, called on the nation’s leaders not to politicise the victory but evolve policies that would enhance the development of football and other sports.

“Many problems are still bedeviling sports in the country such as poor funding, maladministration, poor coaching techniques, lack of basic facilities and others.

“Efforts should be intensified to solve these problems and make sports to attract the much needed private sector investment,” she said.