Jonathan, Mark praise Golden Eaglets

President Goodluck Jonathan  and Senate President David Mark  have praised the Golden Eaglets for the 6-1 victory over Mexico in Saturday’s UAE 2013 FIFA Under-17 World Cup Group F opening game.

In separate statements on Saturday, Jonathan and Mark urged the team not to rest on their laurels.

The President,  in  a statement by his spokesman, Reuben Abati, urged the Eaglets to win  the title for the fourth time. Nigeria won in 1985, 1993 and 2007.

“The President calls on the Eaglets to avoid all possible distractions and continue to display the exhilarating soccer skills, commitment and dedication which overwhelmed the Mexican team  on Saturday in  their subsequent matches,” the statement read in part.

“He assures the Eaglets and their coaches  of the steadfast support and encouragement of the Federal Government and looks forward to another victory when they take on the Swedish youth team on Tuesday.”

Mark, in a statement obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria, urged the Eaglets and their officials to remain focused, maintain team spirit and determination to emerge as the winners of the tournament.

The statement by Mark’s  Chief Press Secretary, Paul Mumeh,  said the  government recognised the importance of the championship and would take care of the welfare of the players.

The Senate President noted that sports had become a potential tool for international politics and an ingredient for achieving national unity and cohesion.

He also commended the Nigeria Football Federation for the performance of the team