"I join other Nigerians to wish you a resounding victory as you begin Nigeria's quest to win the highly coveted African Cup of Nations for the fourth time with your opening match today against the Pharaohs of Egypt at the Stade Roumde Adjia in Cameroon."

"The feats of your predecessors in 1980, 1994, and 2013is a reminder thatthe task aheadis surmountableand the objective achievable.Let me remind you that you have the support and best wishes of over 200 million yourcountrymen and women who will be rooting for your victory, beginning with the match against Egypt.