The number of locations to watch the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations has been expanded from 15 to 20, according to a statement released by the Lagos State Government on Saturday.
Jerrymusa.com reports that this was said in an interview with NAN by Mr. Damilare Orimoloye, the governor’s special assistant on sports for Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Lagosians Will Have More Reasons to Cheer
Orimoloye pledged that Lagosians would have more to cheer about during the AFCON matches during the state government’s monthly “Keep Fit Lagos” exercise.
“The idea to increase the AFCON viewing centres across Lagos State is in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEME Plus Agenda, which emphasises social inclusion,” he stated.
“The idea is that people will come out to interact while watching the AFCON 2023; people will have the opportunity to go out and mingle” alongside other supporters of football.
Through this endeavour, our people will connect and bond more in a welcoming setting.
“We now have 20 centres throughout Lagos, with five more added to the previous 15; this will improve closer proximity and encourage more people to come out.”
Oluwatoyin Gafaar, the director general of the Lagos State Sports Commission, observed that additional side attractions had been added to the viewing areas.
“We had 15 centres in the last two years, but this time we are going to have 20 centres, and we will keep growing,” he declared.
Lagos State Government Pledges Support
“As directed by Governor Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos government is prepared to offer the people all the assistance they require. Our goal is to strengthen the bonds among the people in Lagos State.
“The centres will be opened at 3 p.m. and will remain open until the last match is played. The centres are not for Nigeria’s fixtures alone, but for all the matches of AFCON 2023.
“Other incentives include feeding the spectators, drinks, and pop corn, among others. It’s going to be an exciting moment for football fans in Lagos during AFCON 2023.”