The Federal Government has described the Super Eagles' victory over Algeria as a significant boost to Nigeria's cultural diplomacy and soft power outreach, saying the win has lifted national morale and strengthened the country's image abroad.
In a press statement signed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson, Mr. Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, on Sunday, the Ministry congratulated the Super Eagles on what it called an impressive and commendable achievement that reaffirmed Nigeria's tradition of excellence in international sports.
The Ministry noted that sports, especially football, remain a vital pillar of Nigeria's cultural diplomacy and a key Presidential Ministerial Deliverable under the current foreign policy framework.
It said football allows Nigeria to project core national values such as unity, resilience, discipline, fair competition, and collective aspiration, while strengthening people-to-people connections and enhancing the country's international image beyond conventional diplomacy.
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The Ministry also acknowledged the patriotic gesture of Mr. Abdul Samad Rabiu, who publicly pledged substantial incentives to the team on January 10, 2026, in recognition of their performance.
According to the statement, the gesture reflects responsible national citizenship and highlights the positive role of the private sector in promoting Nigeria's soft power, national cohesion, and international goodwill.
It further stated that through their conduct and performance, the Super Eagles continue to serve as cultural ambassadors of Nigeria, fostering continental solidarity, mutual respect, and positive engagement across Africa and the global community.
As the team advances to the semi-finals, the Ministry called on Nigeria's diplomatic missions and diaspora communities to amplify the achievement as a symbol of national unity, partnership, and global relevance, while reaffirming its commitment to using sports and culture as tools of foreign policy.
