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Outgoing minister of Sports in Nigeria, Sunday Dare has said that hosting the 2025 AFCON will open doors for the country’s socio-economic development.
Nigeria and Republic du Benin have jointly submitted a bid to host the 2025 AFCON tournament after initial host Guinea’s hosting right was withdrawn by CAF.
Dare, who said that the Federal Government was still waiting for CAF to decide on the bid, believes the country has done all expected of it by the African body, which recently inspected the nation’s facilities to ascertain whether they are ready for the biennial event.
Dare made this comment on a radio show in Lagos yesterday.
“This is not the first time Nigeria is seeking to co-host the AFCON with a neighbouring African country. Benin Republic was the first country initially given the right to bid for the 2025 AFCON, but Nigeria had to join them because they know they cannot do it alone.
“Already, CAF/FIFA representatives have visited Abuja, Uyo and other designated stadiums for the AFCON. The sports ministry is waiting for CAF’s verdict to know the next step to take,” he said.
Dare disclosed that seven ministries, including the Ministry of Interior, are ready to put their resources together to achieve the hosting bid.
“If the CAF verdict does not favour Nigeria and we can’t host the 2025 AFCON, Nigeria still has the chance to bid for the 2027 edition,” he said.