The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on the Super Eagles to stay composed and self-assured as they get ready for their Africa Cup of Nations semi-final showdown with Morocco scheduled for 21:00.
In a message shared on his X handle on Wednesday, the minister rallied the national side ahead of the crucial match, reassuring them that Nigerians both within the country and in the diaspora are firmly behind them.
“Dear Super Eagles, as you prepare to face Morocco in the AFCON semifinals, I want you to know that the whole of Nigeria stands firmly with you,” Idris said.
He praised the team’s performances so far in the tournament, saying, “Your journey so far has been inspiring. Match after match, you have shown discipline, courage, and belief, reminding us why the Super Eagles remain one of Africa’s most respected teams.”
The minister reminded the players of Nigeria’s football history at the continental level. “You have been here before. You know what it takes to win at this level. From past AFCON triumphs to victories against tough opponents, you have always carried Nigeria’s flag with pride,” he said.
Idris urged the team to approach the match with unity and determination. “As you step onto the pitch, remember that you are not alone. You carry the hopes of millions of Nigerians. They believe in you and draw strength from your performances,” he stated.
He added, “Play with the confidence of champions, the unity of brothers, and hunger. Stay focused, trust one another, and give your best from the first whistle to the last.”
Concluding his message, the minister said, “Tonight, go out there and write another proud chapter in our football story. Play with heart. Play with pride. Play for Nigeria. God bless you, Super Eagles. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Nigeria will face Morocco in the semi-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday night in Rabat, with the winner securing a place in the final.
The Super Eagles reached the semi-finals after a 2–0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals. The team has won all five of its matches so far in the tournament and has scored 14 goals en route to the last four under head coach Éric Chelle.
The Chairman and Founder of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, also pledged financial rewards to the Super Eagles following their 2–0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, announcing additional incentives for subsequent matches.
“To encourage you, I pledge USD $500,000 to the players upon winning the semi-final, with an additional USD $50,000 for every goal scored. Should you go on to win the final, I further pledge USD $1,000,000, plus USD $100,000 for each goal scored in the final,” Rabiu said.
