Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Friday, urged the nation’s Dream Team VI in the men’s football event at the ongoing Rio Olympics Games not to give up as a result of their setback in the semi-final match against Germany.

Saraki in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in Abuja, also commended the quartet of Blessing Okagbare, Gloria Asumnu, Jennifer Madu and Agnes Osazuwa, for their qualification for the 4 by 100 metres race finals.

He urged them to make Nigeria proud by picking the gold at the finals of the race.

He specifically charged the men’s football team to ensure that they win the third place match so as to bring home the bronze medal.

The Senate President said: “Setbacks are part of life, but rising above setbacks makes the champion. I believe you will make the country proud by bringing home the bronze in this final episode of your soccer campaign at Rio.

“Be assured that any effort you expend in making this last encounter a successful venture will still be highly rewarding as it is will change the story about your performance and take the name of the country a notch higher and in the best of lights.

“Therefore, I want to urge you to spare no efforts at making sure that you seize this last opportunity to change the narrative of our participation in the football event for the better.”

Saraki urged the 4 by 100 relay team to do their utmost to transcend their limitation. “The Gold is yours for grabs. Don't forget that Nigerian athletes have always put forth spectacular performances in this particular track event. So, I urge you to go for gold in this final encounter,” the Senate President said.

He also urged Nigerians not to relent in their support and prayers for the nation's flag-bearers in the various competitions until the final whistle.

•Photo shows Saraki.

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