Nigeria is set to welcome some of the continent’s most celebrated former footballers as Nwankwo Kanu confirmed plans to take part in the African Legends United Gala Match billed for March 28 in Abuja.
The ex-Super Eagles captain revealed the development during the African Continental Free Trade Area Festival, noting that the novelty encounter will bring together household names such as Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, Daniel Amokachi, Finidi George and other retired stars for a cause that extends beyond football.
It’s happening in Nigeria and the legends are going to be there. They are going to do what we normally know how to do. And then we’ll perform and everybody will enjoy it,” Kanu stated.
Highlighting the broader objective of the initiative, the former African Footballer of the Year explained that the players are committed to advancing African identity while creating opportunities at the grassroots level.
We involve in this project because we want to promote the culture of Africa. At the same time, empower the grassroots,” he said.
Kanu further stressed that the legends were united by a shared responsibility to positively influence the next generation and reinforce solidarity across African nations.
It’s legends because we are giving back as well. And that’s why we all agreed to be involved in this kind of event. So, myself Jay Jay Okocha, Daniel Amokachi and others will participate in the match on March 28,” he added.
Former Cameroon international Eyong Enoh also spoke about the significance of the programme, confirming that the festival is scheduled to hold from March 26 to 28, with the exhibition match concluding the three-day event at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
Enoh emphasized that practical steps are necessary to achieve genuine continental integration.
You need initiatives to drive it. Just like we know we have a lot of projects, we have a lot of promises, but the actions to drive that is a big deal,” he said.
Reflecting on African identity, he noted that national boundaries should not overshadow shared heritage.
The only difference between Cameroon and Nigeria is a line that was drawn colonially. I don’t see myself just as a Cameroonian. I see myself as an African. So, the African Continent Free Trade Area and the festival of it, which we are initiating is to change from the lines that divide to the lines that unite. And this is that line through this fest.”
Enoh described the project as a strong platform for cooperation across the continent.
So, I think it’s the most viable initiative to unite Africa. And of course, our motto is one Africa, one market, one future. And again, that’s why I’m part of this.”
Organisers have also lined up several activities to accompany the festival, including cultural presentations and exhibitions by emerging businesses, all aimed at strengthening collaboration and showcasing Africa’s rich diversity.
