Contrary to the widely shared report that President Bola Tinubu would be physically present to watch the finals of the ongoing 2023 African Cup of Nations [AFCON] in Côte d’Ivoire on Sunday, Vice President Kashim Shettima has been told to lead the Federal Government delegation to the event.
According to Complete Sports, CAF President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, had said during a press conference in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire on Friday, that Tinubu would be at the final event.
Motsepe was asked during his press conference at the Palace de la culture, Trechville, Abidjan, ‘When can Africa host the World Cup again?’ and he reportedly replied, “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.”
However, a statement on Saturday from the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, noted that since Shettima represented the President at the semi-finals last week, where Nigeria defeated South Africa, the VP would head back to Abidjan for the title decider.
“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,” the statement noted.
