AFCON 2023: Shettima off to Côte d’Ivoire to support Nigeria against South Africa

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has jetted off to Côte d’Ivoire to watch the Super Eagles of Nigeria play against South Africa in the semi-final of the 2023 African Cup of Nations.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications, Stanley Nkwocha.

“The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, at the instance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has left Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, for Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, to lend the President’s unwavering support to the Super Eagles of Nigeria as they take on South Africa,” Nkwocha wrote on X.

The match between the Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana of South Africa will be played at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake, Côte d’Ivoire today at 6 p.m.

Nkwocha said the Vice President’s visit to Cote D’Ivoire will strengthen the deep-rooted connection between football and national identity in Nigeria.

According to him, Shettima’s presence will not only inspire the Super Eagles on the pitch but also serve as a rallying point for millions of Nigerians cheering the team from their homes.

This year’s AFCON has seen the Super Eagles soar to new heights despite the team not being given any chance of going very far before the tournament kicked off on January 13, 2024.

With a dominant performance in the group stages and a thrilling victory in the quarter-final, they have established themselves as strong contenders for the title which would be their fourth in history.

With this being their 15th semi-final, Nigeria holds the record for most appearances at this stage.

The Super Eagles will be aiming to replicate the success they achieved in 2013, when they lifted the trophy in South Africa under the tutelage of the late coach Stephen Keshi.

“Vice President Shettima’s visit to Côte d’Ivoire serves as a powerful call for national unity and support,” Nkwocha said.

“As the Super Eagles prepare for their crucial semi-final match, Nigerians across the globe are urged to raise their voices and cheer on their team.”

The Special Adviser to Tinubu on Media and Communications added that the entire nation stands behind the Super Eagles as they go in search of the ticket to the final of the 2023 AFCON.