Minister of Sports Development, John Owan Enoh, has directed the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Super Eagles coach, Jose Peseiro to ensure the Super Eagles emerge champions in the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The competition will be held in Côte d’Ivoire from January 13 to February 11, 2024.

The minister issued the marching orders on Wednesday in Abuja at a meeting with the NFF and Peseiro to discuss strategic plans and preparations for the AFCON.

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Enoh expressed concern about the Super Eagles’ performances, particularly given their slow start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

DAILY POST reports that the Eagles were held to uninspiring draws by both Lesotho and Zimbabwe in November.

According to the minister, Nigerians are passionate about the round leather game and are eager to win the AFCON after more than a decade of waiting.

“Our country is so passionate about football, such that amidst all other sports, football is about the only sport that has an entry in the nation’s national budget.

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“That is how important football is because whatever happens to it happens to us as a country.”

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unflinching support for Nigerian football, emphasizing the need for rigorous planning and unified strategies in propelling the national team to victory.

Arsenal midfielder Jorginho’s next possible club has been revealed.

As per Calciomercato, Jorginho is reportedly set to leave Arsenal at the end of the season, with a return to Serie A on the cards.

The report added that Juventus are interested in signing the Italy international.

The 31-year-old signed for Arsenal from Chelsea in January of this year for a fee of £12 million.

However, Jorginho has not been used regularly by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

Jorginho is in the final year of his contract at Arsenal and is likely to leave as a free agent next year.

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His playing time has only decreased since Declan Rice arrived from West Ham United in the summer.

He had played in the Serie A before during his time at Napoli, where he made 160 appearances for the club.

Super Eagles defender, Ola Aina has claimed Nottingham Forest’s November Goal of the Month award.

Aina won the award with his stunning strike in the Steve Cooper side’s 2-0 victory against Aston Villa at the City Ground.

The 27-year-old slotted home a powerful shot from outside the box in the fifth minute of the encounter.

It was the Nigeria international’s maiden goal for the Tricky Trees.

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The stunning strike received 50 per cent of the total vote.

The full-back linked up with Nottingham Forest on a free transfer in the summer.

Aina has made 10 league appearances for the Reds.