President Bola Tinubu has directed Vice-President Kashm Shettima to represent him in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Côte d’Ivoire.
Tinubu assigned Shettima to lead a presidential delegation to the match between Nigeria and the hosts on Sunday at the Olympic Stadium Ebimpe in Abidjan, according to a statement released on Saturday by presidential aide Stanley Nkwocha.
According to the statement, the president also urged Nigerians to support the Super Eagles in their quest to win the country’s fourth AFCON title.
The statement reads:
“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 came a few hours after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) president, Patrice Motsepe, announced Tinubu’s attendance at the final match in Côte d’Ivoire.
Shettima was at the stadium in Bouake for the Eagles’ semi-final game against South Africa, which they won 4-2 on penalties.
The Super Eagles will face Côte d’Ivoire on Sunday at 6 p.m.