In the wake of Nigeria’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Senegal in their opening match of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeboye Anthony Adeyinka (popularly known as Zulu Authority), has called on Nigerians to stand firmly behind the home-based CHAN Eagles, expressing full confidence in their ability to bounce back.
Describing the loss as “unfortunate but not discouraging,” the SSA emphasized that the boys showed promise and just need a little more precision and belief to turn things around.
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“Let’s not give up on our boys. These are homegrown talents flying the nation’s flag, and they need our support now more than ever,” Hon. Adeboye said in a press statement. “They were not outclassed; it was a narrow loss. With the right mentality and the backing of Nigerians, I have no doubt they’ll bounce back stronger against Sudan.”
Nigeria’s next group game against Sudan is seen as a make-or-break encounter, and the SSA believes the match offers a perfect platform for redemption and renewed national pride.
He also commended the NPFL Chairman, Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye, for his steadfast support and leadership of the domestic game, noting that the presence of a competitive league is key to the strength of the CHAN Eagles.
“The beauty of CHAN is that it gives our local players the global spotlight. It is our duty to lift their spirit, not to crush it when the going gets tough,” he added. “The boys are ready — and with our encouragement, they’ll fight back.”
Hon. Adeboye urged Nigerians at home and abroad to flood social media, radio, and community spaces with messages of encouragement, noting that the “Nigerian spirit thrives on unity, hope, and comeback stories.”
With two more games to play in the group, including the final clash against Congo, all is still to play for — and Nigeria’s CHAN Eagles remain firmly in the race for qualification.
“This is not the end. It’s just the beginning of a great fightback,” Hon. Adeboye concluded.
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