Burkina Faso's fantasy run in the Africa Cup of Nations ended in disappointing fashion as Nigeria ran out 1-0 winners in the final to lift their third continental crown.
A goal from Sunday Mbah five minutes before halftime was enough to ensure victory, and the bragging rights in Africa, for Nigeria as the star-filled side finally fulfilled their promise.
"I'm so happy it is a dream come true," the matchwinner Mbah said. "I don't know what to say.
"We really worked hard and we were looking forward to this day and I'm so happy for this.
"It will go a long way towards my career. This is my first time and I'm very happy. We gave all that we had."
Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi became just the second man in history to win the title as a player and coach, with Egyptian Mahmoud Al Gohari being the first to achieve the rare feat.
Keshi has been given much credit for the team's success, but the coach feels the AFCON triumph is just the first step towards building a team capable of making an impact at next year's World Cup in Brazil. Nigeria will also represent Africa in the Confederations Cup in Brazil.
"We're not there yet," Keshi said after the game. "My plan was to build a good team for Nigeria when I came on board almost a year and half ago.
"Now we are on the path to building a great side."
Nigeria and Chelsea forward Victor Moses, who could have been playing for England but instead chose to play for the Super Eagles, dedicated the victory to all his countrymen.
"(It's) one of (the) best days of my life," he tweeted on his official account. "This is a dream come true I'm so proud to be Nigerian. The win is for each and every one of (you) back home."
