The Federal Government has commended the Super Eagles for their performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, assuring the team that Nigerians remain proud of them despite losing 4–2 in a penalty shootout to host nation Morocco at the tournament semi-final.
In a statement released on Thursday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government praised the players for representing the country with pride, dignity and resilience throughout the competition.
“Nigeria remains proud of you,” Idris said, noting that the Super Eagles displayed character, teamwork and commitment even in defeat.
He said the players’ conduct and fighting spirit embodied the values associated with the national colours, stressing that the team’s effort mattered as much as the final result.
“Even in defeat, you showed character, teamwork and resilience, and those qualities matter deeply to the nation you represent,” the minister said.
According to Idris, the Super Eagles reminded Nigerians that playing for the country goes beyond winning matches, describing the green and white jersey as a symbol of courage, unity and perseverance.
“You reminded us that wearing the green and white is about courage, unity and never giving up. Football has its highs and lows, but your effort and commitment throughout this tournament have earned the respect and gratitude of Nigerians at home and abroad,” he said.
The minister urged the team to remain united, learn from the experience and return stronger, assuring them of the nation’s continued support.
“Hold your heads high, stay united and return stronger. Nigeria is grateful for the joy and hope you gave us during this competition, and the nation stands with you, always,” Idris added.
The Super Eagles were knocked out of the tournament on Wednesday after losing 4–2 in a penalty shootout to host nation Morocco, following a goalless draw after extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The semi-final was keenly contested, with Morocco enjoying more of the attacking initiative, registering 16 shots to Nigeria’s two.
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Both sides, however, were kept in the game by impressive goalkeeping displays from Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali and Morocco’s Yassine Bounou.
Nigeria’s key attackers, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, found it difficult to break through the hosts’ defence, as Morocco secured a place in the final via penalties
Meanwhile, Billionaire industrialist and Chairman of BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu, has announced that he will fulfil his $500,000 pledge to the Super Eagles despite the team’s failure to clinch the Africa Cup of Nations title.
He praised the players for giving their all on the pitch, noting that although the desired outcome was not achieved, they had made Nigerians proud with their performance.
“You fought with your hearts, gave your all, and showed true courage and determination on the pitch. Though it wasn’t meant to be this time, you have made every Nigerian proud,” Rabiu wrote.
Reflecting further, the business mogul noted that outcomes do not always reflect effort, stressing that the spirit, passion and unity displayed by the team were what truly mattered.
“Sometimes, even our best efforts don’t bring the outcome we hope for, but the spirit, passion and unity you displayed are what truly matter.
You left everything on the field, and that is worthy of celebration,” he added.
As a token of appreciation, Rabiu confirmed that he would still honour the $500,000 reward earlier promised to the team, describing it as recognition of their hard work, dedication and the joy they brought to Nigerians during the tournament.