During a ceremony hosted by the governor on Friday, Nwabali was awarded a N20 million cash prize and conferred with the Distinguished Service Star of Rivers State. Additionally, Governor Fubara presented a N30 million gift to the Super Eagles’ crew in recognition of their contributions.

The governor commended Nwabali, a native of Rivers State, for his remarkable display for the Super Eagles during the AFCON tournament, emphasizing that his stellar performance, alongside other patriots, has brought honor to Nigeria.

Fubara said, “I want to join the great and wonderful people of Rivers State to congratulate you, our brother Stanley Nwabali and our wonderful team.

“We are here again in just about four months after you won a local trophy.

“Today, you have brought a national trophy. So, when people say or talk behind us to ask what we are doing, we are achieving those things that are not, maybe, seen physically, but they give joy and fulfilment.

“If we have not encouraged you in a way that motivated you, you won’t be where you are. So, it is part of purposeful governance and administrative efficiency.

“So, I want to thank you and assure you that we will continue to do our best.”