Sports Minister hails John Obi Mikel on retirement

Nigeria’s Minister for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Sunday Dare has heaped praises on former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, following his retirement from active football.

Dare on Wednesday September 28 hailed the 2013 AFCON title winner for achieving success in his illustrious career which brought smiles to many households.

“I celebrate with you, Mikel John Obi on your retirement as a professional footballer. Thank you for donning the green and white jersey of our fatherland with pride. For more than a decade, you made Nigerians proud and brought smiles to households.

“Firstly, as a player and also as a captain, your ethic and dedication were exemplary. We will remember you as an integral part of the historic 2013 all-conquering AFCON team with smiles on our faces. That young boy we saw as an Eaglet grew into an unstoppable Eagle years later,” Dare said further.

“On the biggest of stages abroad, you represented Nigeria as a worthy ambassador with your art. On a tension-filled night in Munich, you dedicated your UEFA Champions League success to our legend, Late Rashidi Yekini. We could not be any prouder of you, John. You have left a formidable track for others to follow, and I join millions of Nigerians around the globe to celebrate you.”

Mikel retires as one of Nigeria’s most decorated players with 91 international caps, one AFCON title, an Olympic Bronze medal, three F.A Cups, two EPL trophies, one Champions League title, one Europa League title, amongst other accolades.