18th July, 2015
Okafor Ofiebor/Port Harcourt
Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has splashed dollars on the U-23 team (Dream Team VI) ahead of Sunday’s Olympic qualifier against Congo in Port Harcourt, southern Nigeria.
Shortly after watching the team’s training session at the 40,000 capacity Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium on Friday in Port Harcourt said they needed to win convincingly.
According to the governor, “We need to win this match and win convincingly. If you score any goal you will go with $30,000 and if you win with three goals you will go home with $100,000.”
Wike added that, “Mr President will be happy that you win this match.”
Wike, while assuring the team of maximum support, said the hosting of the Olympic qualifier was important for Rivers state because it will be the first time an international match will be played at the new stadium, and therefore charged them to play as a team.
He thanked the technical crew for the hard work and commitment in making sure the team is fully prepared to defeat their opponents.
Governor Wike also challenged the Captain of the team, Azubuike Okechukwu, to ensure they play as a team
“If for anything Rivers State will want you to win, it is this match,” he stressed, as he wished them good luck ahead of the match.
On his part, the Chief Coach of the Under-23 team and former Super Eagles striker, Sampson Siasia thanked the governor and people of Rivers State for the support and hospitality given to them since they arrived.
While assuring the governor of winning the match, he said “the boys are ready. If they calm down and play, we will score more goals. Come Sunday these boys will make Nigeria proud.”
Coach Siasia lauded the Local Organizing Committee for making sure facilities are ready, noting that already they are in good spirits ahead of the cracker on Sunday.
Earlier, Governor Wike had inspected facilities at the stadium, saying he was satisfied with the level of preparation so far.
He stated that the state cannot afford to miss this opportunity to show to the world that it can host an international match and that Rivers State is the home of hospitality in the country.