Sports Ministry refunds Mikel’s $4,60

After initially denying that Mikel Obi never bailed out the Dream Team with cash, the Sports ministry yesterday refunded the $4,600 the Chelsea star cough out to settle hotel bills in Sao Paolo.

Dalung had in a statement said Mikel didn’t bail out the team with cash as reported by the media. But the same ministry had after Nigeria’s victory over Denmark settled the player.

A Dream Team camp source confirmed that Sports ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Christian Ohaa refunded the money, even as he pleaded with the players to put the country first despite not being well treated.

Addressing the players and officials after the 2-0 defeat of Denmark in Saturday’s quarter final match in Salvador, 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, 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, Captain 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.”