Former Super Eagles captain, Nwankwo Kanu, has confirmed his participation in the African Legends United Gala Match scheduled to take place next month in Abuja, alongside Austin “Jay Jay” Okocha, Daniel Amokachi, Finidi George and other African football greats.
Kanu made the disclosure on the sidelines of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Festival in the nation’s capital, describing the match as part of broader efforts to promote African culture and empower grassroots communities.
“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 said.
Explaining the motivation behind the initiative, the former Arsenal and Inter Milan striker added:
“We involve in this project because we want to promote the culture of Africa. At the same time, empower the grassroots.”
Kanu noted that the legends agreed to take part in the exhibition match to inspire young Africans while fostering unity across the continent.
“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,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, former Cameroon international Eyong Enoh confirmed that the AfCFTA Festival would hold next month, with the legends’ match slated for the final day at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Enoh said the game was designed to promote African unity, stressing that divisions between countries were largely products of colonial history.
“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,” Enoh said.
He added:
“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 Continental 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.
“I think it’s the most viable initiative to unite Africa. Our motto is one Africa, one market, one future. And again, that’s why I’m part of this.”
Organisers said the AfCFTA Festival will also feature startup exhibitions, cultural showcases and other activities aimed at promoting intra-African trade and collaboration, with the legends’ match serving as a major highlight.
