Two members of the victorious Golden Eaglets of Nigeria, Aliyu Abubakar Audu and Akinjide Idowu Elijah has revealed their excitement when they received notification from Kogi State Government to host and honour them following their heroic success in United Arab Emirate.
The Kogi-born 2013 U-17 World Cup gold medal winners who spoke to newsmen a few days after receiving cash awards from Kano state government, expressed their delight with the proposed plans by Governor Idris Wada to honour them.
The duo of defender Abubukar Aliyu Audu and midfielder Akinjide Idowu Elijah were member of Coach Manu Garba led Golden Eaglets that won Nigeria its fourth FIFA U-17 World Cup in United Arab Emirates last month.
Abubakar hails from Ankpa Local Government Area while Akinjide hails from Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State.
“I am happy our state governor, Capt Idris Wada has promised to honour us. I never knew the state government will recognizes us let alone honour us. This shows we have a sports loving governor”, Abubakar said.
Similarly, Akinjide admitted been surprised with the call received from the state governor, Captain Idris Wada on plans to honour them.
“Sincerely, I am pleased with the call from the Kogi state government on plans to honour us. My parents have already written off hope of such as different state continued to honour their indigenes in the victorious squad. I am grateful for the recognition by Capt Idris Wada and promise to be physically present at the occassion. I am proud of Kogi state and happy we have a governor that appreciate sports and talents,” said Akijide.
According to the duo’s agent, Babawo Muhammed, both Akinjide and Abubakar are close to completing a January transfer move to top clubs in Europe.
