You make us proud! Ruto hails Nairobi United as true face of Kenya

President William Ruto on Thursday hosted Nairobi United Football Club at State House following their unexpected victory in the FKF Cup.

The team, which recently earned promotion to the FKF Premier League, beat Gor Mahia in the cup final held at Ulinzi Sports Complex.

During the event, Ruto praised the players for their achievement and the unity they represent.

He said Nairobi United’s story was an example of what Kenya should strive to be,  united across communities, religions, and regions.

“You have made us proud. I see in you a team that represents the face of Kenya. From different backgrounds, you have come together and shown what unity and discipline can achieve,” Ruto said.

The President added that belief in oneself and in God was key to success.

He also announced a cash reward of Sh10 million to the team’s five investment groups and approved their request for a modern team bus.

“People didn’t expect a small team like this to win. But you’ve shown that hard work and determination pay off. You’ve earned it,” he told the players and coaching staff.

Ruto also spoke about the government’s support for sports infrastructure.

He confirmed that the Sports Fund will now focus on building and upgrading facilities.

He said a Sh35 billion stadium is being constructed at Jamhuri, and more are planned across the country.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, whose foundation owns Nairobi United, thanked the President for the recognition.

He said the team has come a long way since it was taken over and that many of the players had grown both on and off the pitch.

“When I took over this team, many players had no confidence in themselves. We’ve worked to mentor them not just as footballers, but as individuals,” Sakaja said.

He highlighted the performance of goalkeeper Earnest Mohamed, who was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player after saving eight penalties.

Sakaja said the team operates on a small budget but had managed to beat well-funded clubs.

“It’s not always about the money. Sometimes, it’s about passion, ideas, and focus,” he said.

He also requested that the tournament be renamed the “Ruto Golden Cup” and asked the government to allocate land for Nairobi United, AFC Leopards, and Gor Mahia to use for training and recreation.

“This team has restored hope to many young people. It shows that with discipline and determination, anything is possible,” Sakaja added.

He noted that the Nairobi County Government is working on five stadiums, Woodley, Kihumbuini, City Stadium (Joe Kadenge), Mwiki, and Riruta, to support grassroots football.

President Ruto closed the ceremony by applauding the team’s hard work and spirit.

“Today, we celebrate not just your win, but the example you have set. You’ve shown what unity and determination can achieve. Congratulations,” he said.

Nairobi United, also known as Naibois, are now preparing for their debut in the FKF Premier League after topping the FKF National Super League.

Their win in the Mozzart Bet Cup marked a historic moment for the club and earned them national attention.