Nigerian President Bola Tinubu is gearing up to witness the thrilling showdown between Nigeria and hosts Cote d’Ivoire in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final, confirmed by the President of the Confederation of African Football Federations (CAF), Patrice Motsepe.
Motsepe made the announcement during a press conference held on Friday at the Palace de la Culture in Trechville, Abidjan, where he also addressed inquiries about Africa’s potential to host the World Cup again.
Responding to questions, Motsepe stated, “Nigeria must put in a bid. The Nigerian president (Bola Tinubu) is coming to watch the final on Sunday. I will have a conversation with him about it.”
Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima had already attended the electrifying semi-final match, where the Super Eagles emerged victorious against South Africa in a thrilling penalty shootout.
The highly anticipated final between Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire is scheduled to kick off at 9 pm Nigerian time at the Alassanne Ouattara Stadium, Ebimpe, Abidjan.
Tinubu’s interest in Nigerian football was evident from the early stages of the tournament when he urged the Super Eagles to step up their game for the knockout stages. This sentiment was conveyed through the Minister of Sports, John Enoh, during a Zoom call with the players from Abuja.
Enoh relayed Tinubu’s message, expressing the President’s desire for an improved performance from the team, particularly after what he deemed as a lackluster showing during the group stage matches.