Nigerian midfielder Samson Tijani has described representing Nigeria at international level as a tremendous source of pride, revealing that playing for the national team has been a lifelong ambition.

Speaking with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) media team ahead of Friday's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania, the FK Podbrežová midfielder reflected on the significance of wearing the national jersey and his determination to make every opportunity count.

Tijani explained that representing Nigeria goes beyond personal achievement, as it brings joy and pride to family members, friends and football supporters across the country.

"Everyone in Nigeria is playing football. I just want to play for the Nigerian national team. You know, it's a big thing. It's a source of pride for you, your family, your friends and everyone across Nigeria. Everybody who knows you will be happy for you. It's something that I've been looking up to for a very long time," he said.

The former Golden Eaglets star also expressed his readiness to make an impression whenever called upon, insisting that competition within the Super Eagles squad serves as motivation rather than discouragement.

"And yeah, here I am. I'm just ready to go and give my best. I don't see myself as being down; that's my motivation. I see myself as being challenged. I like to be challenged," he added.

He emphasised that players must seize opportunities when they arise, noting that he is prepared to compete for his place in the team.

"The thing is, when you get the opportunity, it's up to you to grab it. If you don't take it, you know what I mean? For me, the challenge is open. I'm ready for it," Tijani stated.

The midfielder also commended the atmosphere within the Super Eagles camp, praising the senior players for their support and willingness to help newcomers settle into the team.

"The guys welcome the new players well, and they try to support everyone. They motivate everyone. They're professionals, and they support you. There's great chemistry within the squad, and that's a good thing," he explained.

Tijani further highlighted the benefits of training alongside established international stars, describing their professionalism, attitude and performances as valuable learning opportunities.

"These guys are at the very top, and you can see it in their behaviour and even in the way they play. That's so good, and you can learn so much from them if you keep your eyes open," he said.

Looking ahead to Nigeria's two-legged encounter with Tanzania, Tijani said his priority is to contribute to the team's success and help the Super Eagles secure all six available points.

"We can see a lot of things to learn, and for me, I'll just be here to help in any way. If there's a chance, I'll do what I do best to help the team. As I said earlier, the most important thing is to get six points home and away," he stated.

He added that the entire squad and technical crew share the same determination to win, stressing that securing victory is the immediate priority.

"You know, our way is that we just have to get it done. Everybody in this camp, including the officials, has the main goal of going into the game and winning. That's the priority right now. Everything comes day by day, but right now, the focus and motivation are simply to win this game," he concluded.

Nigeria will host Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, with kick-off scheduled for 5pm Nigerian time.

The Super Eagles currently occupy second position in Group L with three points, having opened their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar before suffering a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau.

The two teams will meet again in the return fixture at the Amman Stadium in Zanzibar on Tuesday, November 17, as Nigeria seek to collect maximum points from the double-header and strengthen their qualification hopes for the 2027 AFCON.