Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has called on Team Nigeria at the ongoing Rio Olympics Football games to strive to get the gold medal because only the best is good for their determination, resilience and display of soccer skills.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in Abuja, on Tuesday, Saraki specifically commended the superlative performance of the U-23 Eagles team so far, in spite of the initial hiccups.

Saraki said: “The resilience, determination and winning streak of the Dream Team VI in the men’s football event at the Rio Olympics excite me and rekindle my hope that Nigeria can once again get the coveted gold medal like we did in Atlanta, in 1996.

“With the focus and team spirit we have seen in your games so far, we are upbeat that we can repeat the 1996 Atlanta feat. Therefore, I urge you not to settle for less. I look forward to a resounding victory in your semi-final encounter against Germany on Wednesday,” he said.

The Senate President however called on Nigerians to borrow a leaf from the indomitable spirit of the nation’s Dream Team VI and always display patriotism even in the face of challenges to make their country great.

“With positive attitude and determination, we shall surmount our present socio-economic challenges as a nation. The Under-23 Team has demonstrated our innate capacity to rise above challenges and achieve success. This season calls for the can-do-spirit. Let every Nigerian come together and pray for this team to win the gold. Our prayers should also be extended to other athletes who are still competing in the Games.

“Again, from now on, all Nigerians should come together and act as one football team in bringing development to our country, respecting the law, patronising our locally made products, striving for the best for our country, shunning vices, making patriotism our badge of honour and showing that we are proud to be Nigerians and ready to bear the burden and benefits of our citizenship,” he added.

•Photo shows Senate President Bukola Saraki.

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