Lagos ready to host Africa Beach Soccer Cup of Nations
The Lagos State Government has concluded plans on the hosting of the 2016 Africa Beach Soccer Nations Cup tournament.
The championship will determine the best beach soccer nation in Africa and doubles as a qualification event for the 2017 Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup billed for the Bahamas.
Addressing media, commissioner for information and strategy, Steve Ayorinde, said hosting the competition is aimed at projecting Lagos positively to the world.
“Sports is paramount in the activities of the state and we believe this championship is a good platform to showcase the best of what Lagos can offer in terms of culture and entertainment,” he said.
In the same vein, the special adviser to the governor on sports and chairman of Lagos State Sports Commission, Deji Tinubu revealed that governor Akinwunmi Ambode, is keen about sports and is determined to make the state the hub of sports in Africa.
“Our job is made easy with His Excellency (Ambode), who is a sport lover. He is very conscious about youth development in Lagos state through sports,” said Tinubu.
“So we decided to embark on various sporting activities to prevent the youth from social vices. For the Beach Soccer, there are provisions for engaging the fans.
“We have also made plans for shuttle buses to convey fans to the arena. We are also working closely with the Local Organizing Committee for a commendable opening and closing ceremonies.”
Nigeria is zoned in Group A alongside Ghana, Egypt and Cote d’Ivoire while Group B has Madagascar, Libya, Morocco & Senegal.
The competition is slated between December 13 and 18 at the Eko Atlantic City, Lagos Island as the Super Sand Eagles hope to win a third African title.
