Saraki splashes N18m on Eagles 

The Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has splashed the sum of $50,000 (N18 million) on the Russia 2018 World Cup bound Super Eagles.

The country’s number three citizen doled out the gift on his visit to the team at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja on Tuesday.

Saraki is also expected to reveal a “special package” for the entire team “for every unreplied goal” scored at the FIFA World Cup in Russia.

The leading football enthusiast and financier also described the Mikel John Obi-led group as compelling role models, doing their job quietly on the pitch and accepting the rewards as and when such come without holding the nation to ransom.

Saraki said: “I have been following the performances and general behaviour of this squad. I must confess that I am very impressed. We no longer have schisms and different camps in the same camp, and you sacrifice a lot for the country without demanding so much before you go to battle.

“From the captain, Mikel Obi, to the newest member of the squad, I assure you of the love of the entire country and the well wishes of every Nigerian as you go to the FIFA World Cup and in fact, in all your endeavours.”

Saraki also praised Technical Adviser Gernot Rohr for the way he has adroitly managed the team and instilled discipline and sense of dedication.

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Melvin Pinnick, lauded Saraki for his proven love for and support and encouragement of the three-time African champions during the FIFA World Cup qualifying race and even before.

Pinnick said: “The Nigeria Football Federation and this team are indebted to you for your huge support all the time. Your love and keen interest has contributed much to keep this team going and reaching for higher heights.

“I must note that we are lucky to have a manager like Rohr who himself is calm, focused and very dedicated to his job, as well as a captain like Mikel who is very humble and God-fearing. The sky will be the limit for this team.”

Mikel responded on behalf of the team, thanking the Senate President and pledging that the Eagles are going to the World Cup in Russia to do Nigeria proud.