President Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated the Super Eagles for their “stunning victory“ in the final of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa on Sunday.
Nigeria beat Burkina Faso 1-0 through a 40th minute Sunday Mba goal to win the trophy for the third time.
Nigeria won the trophy previously in 1980 and 1994.
In a message posted on Facebook, Jonathan said: “ I am overjoyed at the stunning victory of the Super Eagles which has seen Nigeria emerge as the champions of the Africa Cup of Nations 2013.
“Well done patriots, you have done Nigeria proud. 2013 is obviously the year of Nigeria.
“We have emerged as the 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 the 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 great. We thank God, we thank you,’’ Jonathan said.
Apart from the trophy, Emmanuel Emenike, who missed the final through injury, won the Golden Boot award with four goals, while five Nigerians were named in the tournament’s best 11.
They are Emenike, Vincent Enyeama, Mikel Obi, Victor Moses and Efe Ambrose.