Cote d’Ivoire/Nigeria: Afcon – VP Shettima, Not President Tinubu, to Watch Final in Abidjan

The vice president had also represented the president at the semi-final, when the Super Eagles defeated South Africa in a pulsating encounter to book a final place against the host country, Cote d’Ivoire, at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan on Sunday, 11 February.

The match will rekindle memories of Nigeria’s 1-0 victory in the group stage, secured through Captain William Troost-Ekong’s penalty.

The statement continued: “Recognising the unifying power of football and the immense role the Super Eagles play in fostering national pride and unity, the President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed 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.

“The Federal Government calls on all Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to unite in support of the Super Eagles, and to raise their voices in encouragement, and create a wave of national pride that propels the team to glory.”

Aside from the vice president gracing the game against South Africa’s Bafana, the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, and his Bayelsa counterpart, Douye Diri, were also in Bouake for the semi-final game.

In the quarter-final game, Senate President Godswill Akpabio was present along with Labour Party 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, among many other politicians.