The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has applauded the Dream Team for its display of resilience and determination which led to its victory over Japan at their opening games at the Olympic Games in Rio, Brazil.

In a press statement signed by the special adviser to the speaker on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Turaki Hassan, the Speaker praised the players for their patriotic spirit and zeal to serve their father land.

Dogara advised the team to keep the fire burning, adding coupled with hard work, their determination to excel at the games will lead them and the country to victory.

Regretting the poor preparation and ill treatment of the team, he joined the call for better funding for sports in Nigeria, especially as it is one of the things that unite Nigerians across the globe.

“You have started well by doing Nigeria proud in the victory over Japan. I praise your resilience and determination to excel even in the face of daunting challenges in logistics and funding.

“I urge you to keep the fire burning so that at the end, the flag of Nigeria will fly high.

On our part, the House of Representatives will continue to support all initiatives that will promote sports in the country, as well as the welfare of sportsmen who have dedicated their lives to bringing glory to our fatherland.”

•Photo shows Dream Team in a celebration mood.