Sports reward policy boost for Tinubu, says ex-Falcon Avre  

By Emma Njoku

One-time Super Falcons’ top striker, Patience Avre-Odeli, said that President Bola Tinubu’s policy of rewarding athletes who won honours for Nigeria would earn him more support.

The United States of America-based ex-international noted that several stakeholders were highly impressed with the president for honouring and rewarding Super Falcons and D’Tigress players who won the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title and Afro Basketball Championship in Morocco and Cote d’Ivoire, respectively, recently.

“I say without mincing words that President Tinubu’s popularity is growing since he splashed millions of cash, land, apartments and national awards on Falcons and D’Tigress. There was hardly any criticism of the president. He and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, apparently won the hearts of many Nigerians and millions of football fans,” began Avre-Odeli, who is the spokesperson of ex-Falcons Worldwide.

The Delta-born Avre, who won several continental laurels with the Super Falcons and featured at the FIFA Women’s World Cup and Olympic Games, declared that several sportsmen and women have become automatic supporters of President Tinubu.

“Truly, I’m not a politician, but I’m convinced that many more sportsmen and women are joining the Tinubu camp. It’s the first time a Nigerian president would host and honour two successful teams in one week.

“It’s my wish that such presidential largesse is sustained. I’m appealing to President Tinubu and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to also appreciate some of us who worked hard to bring glory to Nigeria. They would have their names written in gold. They have set the pace,” said Avre.

The former Super Falcons striker also wished Warri Wolves well as the start of the Nigerian football season fast approaches.

“I have a special attachment to the Warri Wolves because their Head Coach, Napoleon Aluma, gave me early tips at Invincible Leopards FC years back. I have been supporting the Leopards Academy, and I plan to do more towards grooming of fresh talent. Motivation is key; hence, I remain grateful to President Tinubu.”