Nigeria’s Ambassador to Austria and Slovakia, Her Excellency, Mrs Vivian Okeke on Sunday paid a visit to the Avita Resort camp of the Senior Women National Team, Super Falcons, who are in residential camping ahead of their participation in the 8th FIFA Women’s World Cup finals.
Speaking to the players, Okeke said the embassy received a letter from the Nigeria Football Federation on the arrival of the team and Her Excellency and Mission staff had come to ensure players and officials were happy and well-catered-for.
“We received a letter on your arrival and we are here to make sure you are happy. My essence of coming this weekend is just to know you and assure you that we are all here to support you in the effort you are making to prepare yourself and participate in the World Cup in the next few weeks,” said Her Excellency.
Acknowledging the achievements of the nine-time African Champions who have participated in every edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup since inception in 1991, the ambassador expressed her confidence in the team performing well at this year’s finals in France.
“As the representative of Nigeria and the President of Nigeria himself, His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) here, we are confident that you are going to do us proud; that you are going to do your best and bring glory to Nigeria. We also want to assure you that we strongly believe in you. You have been doing so well in flying Nigeria’s flag high. We have been following your track record and we are very confident.”
The Ambassador, who feted the team with Nigerian delicacies, also promised to assist the team in any way they require her assistance, saying: “If there is anything you are lacking and we can help, we are here for you.”
Speaking on the behalf of the team, Captain Desire Oparanozie appreciated Her Excellency and Mission staff for all they have done for the team since arrival at the airport in Vienna and pledged that the team will not let the nation down in France.
”From the way you received us at the airport, it made us feel welcome and appreciated, that we are not entirely away from home. We really appreciate all the efforts. Expressing your confidence in the team is a morale booster, and we assure you that we are going to do everything to make Nigeria proud”.
