Wednesday, July 8, 2026

David Mark extends goodwill message to Super Eagles, emphasises team unity

“As you take on your opponents, remember that you carry with you the hopes and dreams of over 200 million Nigerians.”

• January 10, 2024
Super Eagles and David Mark
Super Eagles and David Mark

Former Senate President David Mark has urged the Super Eagles to imbibe team spirit in the approach to the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) billed to kick off in Cote d’Ivoire on Saturday.

This is contained in a statement issued by his media adviser, Paul Mumeh, in Kano on Wednesday.

Mr Mark, in a goodwill message to the officials and players of the Nigerian contingent, told the Jose Peseiro-tutored Super Eagles to play as a team and go for goals against their opponents.

“It’s nothing short of honour and privilege to witness the collective strength and spirit of our nation embodied in every one of you.

“You should justify the countless hours of rigorous training, sacrifices and focus on excellence by bringing the coveted trophy to our country, Nigeria.

“Through your perseverance, you have not only honoured your skills but also inspired countless others with your passion and commitment to your craft.

“Your presence in Abidjan will serve as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the unyielding pursuit of greatness Nigeria is known for.

“As you take on your opponents, remember that you carry with you the hopes and dreams of over 200 million Nigerians.

”Your performance will not only reflect your talent but also stand as a remarkable testament to the resilience and sportsmanship of our country, Nigeria.

“You should embrace every moment of the game with God’s grace, confidence and the knowledge that you have already made us all proud by simply reaching this point.

“I urge you to compete with utmost integrity, demonstrating sportsmanship and respect for your fellow athletes.

”Appreciate the diversity and skill that each competitor brings to the stage and forge connections that transcend borders and cultures,” he said.

Mr Mark prays that the Super Eagles’ actions exemplify the values of fair play, honour and camaraderie, which will set an inspiring example for the world to witness and admire.

It will be recalled that Mr Mark, as the then President of the Senate, led the Nigerian delegation to cheer the Super Eagles to victory at the 2013 AFCON final held in South Africa under coach Steven Keshi.

(NAN)

We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.

More from Peoples Gazette

farmers

Agriculture

FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology

The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices

Katsina State

Politics

Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku

“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

Economy

Tinubu urges Afreximbank to mobilise resources for Africa’s industrialisation

Mr Tinubu urged the leadership of the African Export-Import Bank to leverage Africa’s human, financial and natural resources to promote economic progress for all Africans.

Armed Cops

States

Bayelsa: Father, son arrested for illegally possessing guns

The Bayelsa police command says it has arrested a 68-year-old man and his 36-year-old son for illegally possessing four single-barrelled firearms.

Plastic bags waste

Africa

Tunisia proposes ban on single-use plastic bags

Members of the Assembly of People’s Representatives in Tunisia have put forward a legislative initiative aimed at a nationwide ban on single-use plastic bags.

NSCDC armed female squad

Politics

1,300 NSCDC officers to provide security for Edo LG elections

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed 1,300 operatives across Edo’s three senatorial districts to provide security for Saturday’s local government elections.

International Space Station

World

BRICS countries create network of telescopes to study short-duration space phenomena

According to TV BRICS, the network is the Global Open Transient Telescope Array, an international observatory of telescopes for observing transient phenomena.

Solar panels in residential place

NationWide

Fake solar panels in Nigeria could cause fire outbreaks, experts warn

The experts gave the warning in separate interviews on Wednesday, urging consumers to buy only genuine products from authorised dealers.