Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu will not be attending the final match of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on Sunday. Instead, he has delegated Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead the presidential team to support the Super Eagles, who will face the hosts in a thrilling rematch.
Tinubu’s absence has raised eyebrows among some Nigerians, who wonder why he would miss such a historic occasion. The Super Eagles are aiming to win their fourth AFCON title, and match the record of their old rivals Ghana. They have already beaten Ivory Coast 1-0 in the group stage, thanks to a penalty by captain William Troost-Ekong.
Tinubu believes that Vice President Shettima’s presence at the finals alongside the delegation is a testament to the government’s unwavering support for the team and its dedication to their success,” a spokesman for the president Stanley Nkwocha said on Saturday.
Shettima, on the other hand, has expressed his excitement and confidence in the Super Eagles, who he watched defeat South Africa in the semi-finals. He said that the team has shown great spirit and determination, and that they have the full backing of the government and the people of Nigeria.
Tinubu urged all Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to unite in support of the Super Eagles, and create a wave of national pride that propels the team to glory. He said that football is a powerful tool for unity and development, and that Nigeria is ready to celebrate another AFCON triumph.
