Special Eagles soar: Nigeria unveils kits ahead of Amputee African Cup of Nations
The Nigeria Amputee Football Federation has revealed the football team’s kits in anticipation of the upcoming Amputee African Cup of Nations (AAFCON) scheduled to take place in Cairo, Egypt from May 18 to May 30.
Former Nigerian International, Segun Odegbami, presented the new ‘Special Eagles’ jerseys during a ceremony held in Surulere, Lagos State, on Thursday.
Odegbami commended the players for their resilience and dedication to achieving excellence in African football as a team.
”We have the Green, Flying Eagles, Super Eagles, and Falconet teams, but the Special Eagles face unique challenges. Their success is a testament to their extraordinary spirit,” Odegbami remarked.
”I am deeply honored to stand among the Special Eagles, and I pray that opportunities abound for them. I am confident they will emerge victorious in the AAFCON tournament.
”These players epitomize the spirit of heroism in Nigeria, overcoming obstacles that many would take for granted.
”I wish them the best of luck, and I eagerly await their return with the trophy,” he concluded.
Odegbami emphasized the significance of the jerseys, which proudly display the colors of Nigeria.
”We should embrace our locally-made products, as they authentically represent our national identity,” he urged.
The former Super Eagles’ player expressed his delight with the jerseys, which were crafted by PROSTAR, an indigenous designer.
”I am thrilled that these jerseys are locally made, aligning with our government’s call to support indigenous products to boost our economy.
”These jerseys embody our national pride, and I wholeheartedly endorse the Special Eagles brand. I encourage others to support and patronize them as well,” he added.
Paul Maduakor, President of the Nigeria Amputee Football Federation, expressed his appreciation for Odegbami’s presence at the unveiling.
Maduakor highlighted the importance of PROSTAR sport kits in supporting athletes with disabilities in the country.
”Our ‘Raise an Eagle Project’ aims to provide support to physically challenged athletes. By purchasing PROSTAR Jersey products, you are backing the Special Eagles and other athletes with disabilities.
”We strive to improve their quality of life while motivating them to excel in competitions,” he explained.
Maduakor assured that the Special Eagles are prepared to make a significant impact at the upcoming AAFCON in Egypt.
”We have diligently prepared for this tournament, and we are confident in our team’s ability to make Nigeria proud.
”Our jersey products are dedicated to supporting and empowering athletes with disabilities, which is why we initiated the ‘Raise the Eagles Project’,” he emphasized.
The Special Eagles will compete in the 2024 AAFCON alongside teams from 16 other nations.
Originally scheduled for April 19 to 28, the tournament was rescheduled to take place from May 18 to 30.
Nigeria has been placed in Group A alongside the host country, Egypt, Cameroon, and Burundi.
Group B consists of Morocco, Liberia, Uganda, and Senegal, while Group C includes Ghana, Kenya, Gambia, and Algeria.
Group D comprises Angola, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, and Rwanda.