'You have done Nigeria proud' Goodluck Jonathan praises Super Eagles

Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan on Sunday congratulated the Super Eagles for winning the Africa Cup of Nations title with a 1-0 final victory over Burkina Faso.

‘President Jonathan thanks coach Stephen Keshi and all members of the team who have worked very hard…to make Nigeria the proud champions of Africa once again after 19 years of setbacks in the competition,’ his office said in a statement.

‘The President also believes that having conquered Africa, the new Super Eagles can go on to achieve even greater glory at the World Cup in Brazil next year,’ it said.

Jonathan expressed appreciation to the South African government and the Confederation of African Football for a well-organised tournament and promised to hold a reception for the victorious Super Eagles in Abuja on Tuesday.

A few minutes after the match, GEJ wrote on Facebook;

I am overjoyed at the stunning victory of the Super Eagles which has seen Nigeria emerge as the champions of the African Cup of Nations, 2013.

Well done Patriots, you have done Nigeria proud. 2013 is obviously the year of Nigeria. We have emerged as a beacon of hope on the African continent by proving to Africa and the world that a strong Nigerian team put together and trained by a Nigerian coach can stand the test of time and successfully rise to the challenge of a most formidable opponent.

The Nigerian spirit stands strong and steady as we march to the destination of greatness. I doff my fedora hat to this great squad that has brought laughter and happiness to our homes. Nigerians are grateful. We thank God. We thank you.

Nigeria ended a 19-year title drought with the victory over Burkina Faso at Soccer City in Soweto thanks to a late first-half goal from Nigeria-based player Sunday Mba.

It was a result that also took coach Keshi into the record books as he equalled the feat of late Egyptian Mahmoud El Gohary by winning gold medals as a player and a coach.

Additional report from SuperSport