Forty years after winning the most coveted football trophy on the continent for the first time, Youth and Sports Development Minister Mr Sunday Dare has praised the victorious 1980 Green Eagles but added that the Federal Government has postponed the planned celebration for the heroes.
Speaking on the 40 year anniversary of the victory yesterday, Dare said:
“We salute the gallantry of the victorious 1980 Nations Cup-winning Green Eagles for bringing glory and honour to our fatherland.
“Their feat opened a new chapter in the history of Nigerian football and inspired generations of younger players to excel on the field of play. They not only arrested the attention of world football, but they also opened opportunities for others to pursue professional football.
"A big congratulations to all members of that great team for winning the Nations Cup for the first time on home soil. Their achievement brings fond memories to us about the never-say-die Nigerian spirit.
“We were planning to celebrate this anniversary in style in honour of these great patriots, but due to the Covid-19 scourge, we had to put it on hold. Once the situation returns to normal, we shall celebrate these worthy Nigerians. We shall continue to honour those that have won laurels for our great country. Their immense sacrifice can't be forgotten.”
