The federal government has congratulated the Super Eagles over the dominant 2-0 win over Algeria in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal clash on Saturday as the West African nation booked her place in the final four of the tournament. 

This was contained in a statement on Sunday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by its spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, emphasising that the victory against Algeria was crucial to fostering national unity among Nigerians. 

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria congratulates the Super Eagles on their impressive victory over the Algerian national team, which is a commendable achievement that has uplifted national morale and reaffirmed Nigeria’s enduring tradition of excellence in international sports,” the statement said. 

The ministry  stated that sports, particularly football, remained a vital pillar of Nigeria’s cultural diplomacy and constitute a key presidential ministerial deliverable under the current foreign policy framework. 

It stated, “Through football, Nigeria projects core national values of unity, resilience, discipline, fair competition, and collective aspiration, thereby strengthening people-to-people connections and enhancing the country’s international image beyond conventional diplomatic engagement.”

Acknowledging the $500,000 and $1 million cash gifts that the Chief Executive of BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu, promised Super Eagles should they win their semifinal game against Morocco on Wednesday and lift the AFCON title, respectively, the ministry commended the action of the businessman. 

The statement noted, “The ministry further acknowledges the patriotic gesture by Mr. Abdul-Samad Rabiu, CON, who on 10 January 2026 publicly pledged substantial incentives to the Super Eagles in recognition of their outstanding performance and as encouragement toward continued excellence.

“This commendable act reflects responsible national citizenship and underscores the constructive role of the private sector in advancing Nigeria’s soft power, national cohesion, and international goodwill.”

Meanwhile, the ministry stressed that the players continue to show themselves as true ambassadors of Nigeria with their conduct and performance on the pitch.

It added, “By their conduct and performance on the field, the Super Eagles continue to serve as effective cultural ambassadors of the Nigerian nation, fostering continental solidarity, mutual respect, and positive engagement across Africa and the wider international community.

“Their progress in the tournament reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful competition, cultural exchange, and constructive engagement through sports diplomacy. As the team advances to the semi-finals, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on Nigeria’s diplomatic missions and diaspora communities worldwide to  amplify this achievement as a symbol of national unity, partnership, and global relevance.”

The ministry stated that it emains committed to strategically leveraging sports and other cultural assets as instruments of foreign policy in support of national development objectives.

It stated, “The Government and people of Nigeria stand firmly behind the Super Eagles and wish them continued success as they carry the nation’s flag forward with pride and honour.”