Vice-President Kashim Shettima, having witnessed the exhilarating victory of the Super Eagles over South Africa in the AFCON semi-finals, is set to return to Ivory Coast for the much-anticipated finals clash against the host nation. Shettima, who was among the dignitaries present at Stade de la Paix in Bouake, witnessed Nigeria's triumph over Bafana Bafana in a tense penalty shootout, securing their spot in the finals.
The finals, scheduled to take place at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan on Sunday, will see Nigeria facing off against Ivory Coast in what promises to be a thrilling rematch. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as fans eagerly await the outcome of this monumental clash.
In a surprising turn of events, President Bola Tinubu, initially slated to attend the finals in Ivory Coast, has opted to stay back in Aso Rock. Instead, he has directed Vice-President Shettima to lead a presidential delegation to represent Nigeria at the prestigious event.
Stanley Nkwocha, the spokesperson for the Vice-President, conveyed Tinubu's directive, stating, "President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead a presidential team to the finals of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire."
Nkwocha emphasized Tinubu's belief in the unifying power of football and Nigeria's unwavering support for the Super Eagles. Shettima's presence at the finals, alongside the presidential delegation, is seen as a testament to the government's commitment to the team's success and its role in fostering national pride and unity.