Governor Abubakar Sani Bello has charged players of Niger Tornadoes FC to see their defeat in the finals of AITEO Cup as a catalyst that will spur them to greater height as they prepare to represent Nigeria in CAF Confederations Cup.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mrs. Mary Noel Berje, the Governor described the players as gallant losers who gave everything to win the most prestigious trophy in the league but lost out in the penalty shoot-out.
“I congratulate you all for a job well-done; many did not think you will excel in the tournament. You defy all odds and made it to the finals and lost gallantly”.
Governor Sani Bello urged the players to see themselves as true champions and expressed optimism that they can go all the way in the continental championship and do the state proud.
“As you begin preparations to represent Nigeria in the Confederation Cup, I urge you all to be good ambassadors of the state, go and conquer Africa”.
Governor Abubakar Sani Bello said the team has shown that they were hungry for success having reached the AITEO finals twice in three years, lost to Akwa United in 2017 on penalty shoot-out 3-2, explained that it was a clear demonstration of the players desire to become champions.
The Governor assured the team of all necessary support that will ensure them to give their optimum best when they commence the continental games as well return them to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
Niger Tornadoes will open her 2019 Confederation Cup campaign against Santoba of Conakry, Guinea at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna next weekend thereafter in a fortnight travel to Conakry for the second leg.
