Sports Ministry refunds Mikel’s $4,600

 The Ministry of Youth and Sports has refunded the captain of Dream Team VI, John Mikel Obi the sum of $4,600 he paid for the team in Sao Paulo on their way to Salvador.

Extra Time gathered that Mikel had to part with $4,000 of his personal money, to ensure that the Nigeria Olympic team did not miss their flight to Salvador.

Players and officials of the Dream Team VI, were held to ransom in Sao Paulo, over unpaid hotel bills incurred by additional officials.

Organizers of the Games, insisted on a team of 25 players – 18 players and seven officials.

A source confirms that it was the responsibility of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), to offset the bills of the extra five officials.

This is contrary to an earlier statement by the ministry that Mikel did not bail out the team.

Addressing the players and officials after the 2-0 defeat of Denmark in Saturday’s quarter final match in Salvador, the Sports Minister, Barrister Solomon Dalung, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Chinyeaka Ohaa, said: “I am happy to be a Nigerian, because in spite of all the challenges, you have taken the world by storm; you have by your performance given happiness to more than 160 million Nigerians. Football is the biggest unifying factor in Nigeria today. From Mr. President to the average Nigerian you have made everyone proud today.

“I am humbled by your efforts, your commitment and your patriotism. I want to assure you that your sacrifices will not be in vain. Aside whatever the NFF have for you, we will as much as possible make you happy, if only you will be patient with us. Today, with your performance, I am convinced that you will get that gold.”

Responding, Mikel Obi said: “We want to thank you for your fatherly support. In truth, there have been a lot of challenges, but every time we go onto the field, we forget about everything and make sure our fatherland comes first. We have done that so far and we will continue to do that, but we need more motivation.”

Excited about the qualification of the Nigeria U-23 team for the semifinals of the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Rio 2016, the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports assured players and officials of the team that they will be given all that is due to them.