Ahead of the Super Eagles’ African Cup of Nations semi-final match against South Africa on February 7, the Lagos State Government has established a large-scale viewing center at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, and at various locations across the state.
According to the statement shared on the Lagos Government’s X handle, 25 viewing centers have been set up in different areas across the state to encourage and ensure that all Lagosians are thrilled and entertained.
The statement reads: “SANWO-OLU SETS UP VIEWING CENTRE AT ONIKAN FOR SUPER EAGLES/BAFANA BAFANA MATCH
“The Lagos State Government has set up a mega viewing centre for the Super Eagles/Bafana Bafana match on Wednesday, February, 7. The Government has twenty-five viewing centres all over the State to encourage and ensure that Lagosians savour the thrills and entertainment that the unifying game of football avails the teeming population both young and old. The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations started on 13th January 2024 and Nigeria has not lost any match.
“Onikan Stadium, Lagos (now Mobolaji Johnson Arena, the first stadium in Nigeria) is designated Mega Viewing Centre. The kick-off is 6pm.
“Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso said Lagos, being the sports capital and the base of the largest supporters of the Super Eagles, Governor Babajide Olusola-Sanwo-Olu deemed it fit to provide an opportunity for all fans to watch the match.
“Mr. Governor expressed the hope that the national team will triumph in the match because the team has so far shown capacity and technical know-how to win.
“He recalled that Nigeria has been crowned AFCON champions three times, finished second on four occasions and came third place eight times.
“Apart from the Mega Viewing Centre at Onikan, there are centres in Agege Stadium, Abesan Sports Centre, Alimosho LGA Secretariat, Agbado-Oke Odo LCDA Secretariat, L.A. Primary School, Layeni, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Anglican Primary School, Aradagun, Badagry.
“Other locations are: New Road Primary School, Ajegunle, Femi Gbajabiamila Mini Stadium, Coker-Aguda, Surulere, Epe Recreation Centre, Sprite Court, Festac, Igando-Ikotun LCDA Secretariat, Onisabe of Igbobi’s Palace, Jibowu, Alajede’s Palace, Ijede, Oba’s Palace, Ijegun, Ikorodu Town Hall, APC Party Secretariat, Ketu.
“Also listed as viewing centres are Campos Mini Stadium, Lagos, Lagos House Car Park, Marina, Mushin Public Library, YMD Garden, Ojo, Olera Football Pitch, Ojokoro Housing Estate, Afolabi Primary School, Oshodi, Papa Playing Field, Oworonsoki and Rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba.”