The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president, Ibrahim Gusau, has assured Nigerians that the Super Eagles will take the match against Sao Tome and Principe seriously despite already securing the 2024 AFCON qualification.

The Super Eagles will lock horns with Sao Tome and Principe on Sunday in a dead rubber 2024 AFCON qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.

Gusau gave the assurance on Thursday in Abuja when the Sports Writers’ Association of Nigeria (SWAN) national president, Isaiah Benjamin, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to his office.

The NFF boss told journalists after the visit that the federation will leave no stone unturned to ensure victory for the team.

“I want to assure you by the grace of God, in spite of the fact that we have already qualified for the AFCON, we still have the integrity to protect Nigeria and Nigerians,” he said.

Gusau said the match will also serve as preparation for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers scheduled to commence in November.

“As you are aware, the coach has invited the best players for the match, which a lot of people were even looking at it that it doesn’t warrant that.

“But don’t forget we still have a very big task ahead of us, which is the World Cup qualifiers, which starts in November.

“After this match, we don’t have any time to bring the Super Eagles players together again.

“So it’s imperative for the coach to have the best team at his disposal so that he can make sure he has a team that can face the next challenge,” he said.

Super Eagles will commence their 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho on November 13.

Earlier, SWAN president Isaiah Benjamin said the visit was to strengthen the synergy between the NFF and SWAN.

(NAN)