Lagos — The Governor of Ogun State Otunba Gbenga Daniel has described the qualification of the Super Eagles for the World Cup taking place in South Africa next year as a major boost for the country's sports development and an indication that Nigeria would continue to make progress in spite of all odds. Reacting shortly after the Super Eagles joined other nations to vie for honours in the land of Nelson Mandela, Governor Daniel said the victory was achieved because the Super Eagles and their handlers never gave up even when it was almost certain that Nigeria was going to miss the greatest football fiesta in the world.

"I salute the resilience of the Eagles and their handlers for lifting the spirit of the nation and putting smiles on the faces of their compatriots, they showed courage and determination in Nairobi, they gave the match everything and God crowned their efforts with success as their Tunisian counterparts crumbled when it mattered most. The victory has taught us never to give up as it is never over until it is over. I congratulate the President of the Federal Republic, Alhaji Umar Musa Yar Adua, the Presidential Task Force, and the Nigerian Football Federation, the Super Eagles and their handlers and the entire nation," the Governor said in the statement issued in Abeokuta and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Adegbenro Adebanjo.

Governor Daniel also urged all concerned in the Eagles preparation for the 2010 World Cup to redouble their efforts to ensure that the Senior National Football Team improved on their second round achievement in previous tournament by qualifying for at least the Quarter final.

He said this can only be achieved if all those involved in the preparation work together this achieve common goal