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Nigeria to host a hitch free World Cup
The Nigerian Vice President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has assured that Nigeria will host a hitch free FIFA Under-17 World Cup tournament, despite the economic effects of the global financial crisis.
He stated this, on the night of Monday January 26, at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, during the unveiling of the FIFA Under-17 World Cup emblem.
Dr. Jonathan while unveiling the emblem said that his tour of States to inspect facilities for the tournament was to determine their state of readiness and areas of Federal Government’s assistance towards ensuring a successful hosting of the championship. He however assured that all facilities shall be ready for the championship by April. He said that in spite of initial controversy, Nigeria have accepted the challenge to host the championship and there is no going back. "Our commitment is evident in our efforts towards the development and upgrading of requisite infrastructure for the tournament”, concludes the VP.
According to the VP, the privilege of hosting this unique event in FIFA’s calendar fills all Nigerians with an abiding sense of pride and joy. “We very much cherish the opportunity to treat the world’s youngest and best to Nigeria’s unique hospitality,” he said.
Earlier, the FIFA Vice President, Mr. Jack Warner had expressed hope in Nigeria’s capability to host the World Youth championship the second time. He also expressed satisfaction with state of preparedness of majority of the venues and facilities.
He said that Nigeria has been successful both as a participating and hosting country in the past adding that he is in Nigeria to tell the world that the country can do it the second time. His words: “I am a true believer in Nigeria, all I ask is for the country to give me the faith to prove to FIFA that you can do it again”, noting that the future of football in the continent of Africa is in Nigeria.
The Honorable Minister of Sports/Chairman, National Sports Commission, Engr. Sani Ndanusa, in his address assured that the Local Organising Committee (LOC) will ensure that Nigeria presents the best FIFA Under-17 World Cup tournament. He also expressed optimism that the Nigeria team will win the championship. |
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