Nigerian multi-millionaire gambling tycoon Kensignton Adebutu known in local parlance as ‘Baba Ijebu’ has donated $150,000 to the Nigerian national soccer team, the Super Eagles, for becoming the first African team to qualify for the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup.
According to a press released issued by the Communications Director of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ademola Olajire, gaming tycoon Adebutu raised praises for the Super Eagles for their determination, professionalism and commitment throughout the qualifying campaign. Adebutu urged the Nigerian national team not to rest on its oars, but to prepare hard to be worthy ambassadors of the country and Africa at the FIFA World Cup finals in Russia next year summer.
The Nigerian team, the Super Eagles, beat Zambian team 1-0 on a Saturday FIFA World Cup Qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, becoming the first African side to seal a place at next year’s World Cup in Russia. Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi scored the goal. The win puts them on an unassailable 13 points at the top of Group B.
Russia will be Nigeria’s sixth appearance at the FIFA World Cup competition.
Kensington Adebutu, 81, is the founder of Premier Lotto Limited, a company that deals in Lotto, a fixed odds game in which players contest against the House (the operator), and not against each other. The amount won is independent of other winners. The operator bears the total risk and literarily can win or lose.