Nigeria’s Minister for Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung has admitted that no one expected the Super Falcons to win the 2016 African Women Cup of Nations this year.
Florence Omagbemi’s ladies won the title for a record 10th time, after defeating hosts Cameroon 1-0 last Saturday
Ever since they arrived in the country, the Falcons have been holed up in an Abuja hotel, as they wait for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), to pay off their outstanding bonuses and allowances.
Dalung, speaking to State House correspondents on Thursday, said they were not prepared for the victory.
“It is unfortunate that we are celebrating victory of the Super Falcons amidst some bitter feelings among the players because of some administrative lapses that were not managed properly,” he said.
“If the situation was explained to these girls I don’t think the situation would have gotten to this level. But we are working round to clock to ensure that what belongs to them legitimately is given to them. This has to do with government process.
“One thing I always make clear is that the process of request for funds for sporting projects must come earlier to meet the objectives.
“Don’t forget that nobody even knew the team would emerge victorious, if we were confident they will emerge victorious, all the Federation would have done is to plan for process of participation and entitlement.
“It is already established in sports tradition, when you win this is what you are entitled to. The situation is highly unfortunate and I don’t like it.
“These girls have given confidence to women who want to embrace sports but this will go a long way in killing this laudable achievement. It is unfortunate but we will make sure the right thing is done”, he added.
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