National Sports Commission boss Shehu Diko splashes cash on CHAN Eagles

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has fulfilled his cash promise to Nigeria’s men’s national team, Team B. Their 3-1 win over their counterparts from Ghana sealed their qualification for the Championship of Africa Nations (CHAN).

The Super Eagles B delivered a stellar performance in front of an electrified crowd at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. Sodiq Ismaila scored in the 18th minute, followed swiftly by goals from Nduka Junior and Saviour Isaac in the 21st and 25th minutes, respectively.

Mallam Dikko donated a sum of 10 million Naira to players and officials of Super Eagles Team B after they qualified for the CHAN taking place next year which ended their six-year wait to return to the tournament.

The pledge of the NSC Chairman was revealed by NSC Director General, Honourable Bukola Olopade after the match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo on Saturday.

“Before the game, I made a personal pledge to reward the team if they emerged victorious. When I shared this with the NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, he immediately applauded the idea but insisted he would donate himself as a sign of solidarity and appreciation for the players’ efforts,” Olopade said after the match.

“It was a heartfelt moment that truly shows his passion for Nigerian football and the athletes representing our country. His generosity has further inspired the team, and we are incredibly grateful for his leadership.”

The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Chief Olopade, and President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau were among the watching dignitaries at the stadium on Saturday.

Additionally, the NFF president has assured that the team will have sufficient preparation ahead of the upcoming tournament in February.

The 2025 CHAN tournament, which exclusively features players competing in Africa, will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from February 1 to 28.