Anambra State Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has sanctioned the establishment of a viewing centre at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka for residents to watch the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) final match.
The showdown, slated for Sunday, will feature Nigeria’s Super Eagles against the Ivory Coast’s Elephants, the host country for the 2023 AFCON.
In a statement released by the governor’s Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, the viewing centre, dubbed “Solution Viewing Centre,” will kick off at 7 pm on Sunday.
Aburime highlighted the governor’s eagerness to rally support for the Super Eagles and foster community engagement during the match, offering complimentary drinks and popcorn to attendees.
The choice of Ekwueme Square, known for its spaciousness, was deliberate for hosting the viewing centre.
The statement emphasized Soludo’s unwavering backing for the Super Eagles, recognizing football’s unifying power across tribes, genders, and classes.
The statement reads: “Aside from the spacious viewing centre located at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, there will be side attractions which include a Disc Jockey (DJ) on stage, free popcorn and liquid to go with for everyone, guest appearances and many more.
“Soludo has consistently expressed his support for the Super Eagles and urges them to bring home the coveted cup.
“Like every Nigerian, the governor understands that football is one aspect of Nigerian life that does not know tribe, gender or class.
“Both the low and high express joy and happiness freely when their team flops or does well without restrictions.”
In the semi-finals, Nigeria’s Super Eagles clinched victory over South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in a thrilling penalty shootout at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake, Ivory Coast.
The decisive penalty was secured when Victor Osimhen, crowned African Player of the Year, was fouled by Mothobi Mvala from the South African team.
