Russia 2018: Rep. Chinda calls for early prepapration
Following the qualification of Nigeria national team Super Eagles for the 2018 Mundial in Russia, a member of the House of Representatives, representing Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency in Rivers State, Rep. Kingsley Chinda has called on all stakeholders in the Sports sector to start early preparations if it wants to make meaningful impact at the tournament.
In a telephone interview with Daily Dispatch, Rep. Chinda while congratulating Super Eagles and indeed Nigerians, called on Federal government particularly sports ministry to be up and doing to ensure a successful outing in Russia.
According to him, “thank God we have qualified, but now is the time to start real preparations. Let the NFF, the sports ministry put the team together early enough and do regorous preparations as a team, this includes grade ‘A’ friendly matches for the team.
“There is need for physical and psychological fitness of the team. Some of the players will be exposed to play against the best players in the world like Messi, Ronaldo, Naymar among others. Our boys must have self confidence and be prepared.
“This is one sport that brings all Nigerians together. Last Saturday there was no tribal or religious sentiments. We were not Hausa, Ibo, Yoruba, Ikwerre, Initio, Tiv or Kanuri in the stadium. We were Nigerians.
“All I see was Green-White-Green shouting and singing victory songs. A palpable Nigerian spirit.”
“Even after the match, everyone forgot about his or her problems and took to the streets celebrating the qualification”, he said.
The Chairman House Committee on Public Accounts warns that the tonarment should not be turned into a jamboree where civil servants and public offices holders would use the avenue to travel out to Russia at the cost of the government.
He, however, promised that the House will support the team and ensure appropriation of fund for the tournament including preparation of the team. “we hope the executive will release the funds on time too” he added.
