Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, have confirmed their participation in the Nigeria-Poland Football Watch Party scheduled to hold at the VIP Lounge of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Shettima will serve as Chairman of the Day, while Akume is expected as the Special Guest of Honour at the event, which is being organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, in partnership with the Polish Embassy in Nigeria.
The initiative is aimed at promoting sports diplomacy, youth development and stronger bilateral relations between Nigeria and Poland.
Speaking ahead of the event, Adeboye described the attendance of the two senior government officials as a reflection of the Federal Government’s commitment to sports as a tool for youth empowerment, national unity and international cooperation under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, the administration views sports as a strategic sector capable of driving economic growth, fostering peace, creating opportunities for young people and strengthening diplomatic ties.
“The confirmation of the Vice President and the SGF demonstrates the importance this administration attaches to sports, not merely as entertainment but as a vehicle for youth empowerment, diplomacy, economic development and social cohesion,” he said.
Adeboye noted that President Tinubu remains committed to initiatives that empower young Nigerians, encourage inclusion and create opportunities through grassroots engagement across the country.
He added that sports have the potential to transform lives, generate employment, promote unity and project a positive image of Nigeria globally.
The presidential aide also praised Vice President Shettima for his dedication to youth-focused programmes and national integration, stating that his presence at the event would inspire young Nigerians and stakeholders in the sports sector.
“Vice President Shettima has consistently supported initiatives that bring Nigerians together and create opportunities for young people. His participation sends a strong message about the future of sports development in the country,” he said.
Adeboye further commended Akume for supporting programmes that contribute to youth development and national progress.
He said the SGF’s attendance highlights the Federal Government’s collective resolve to support initiatives that promote diplomacy, cultural exchange and positive engagement through sports.
Describing the watch party as more than a football event, Adeboye said it would serve as a platform for strengthening friendship, enhancing cultural exchange and deepening cooperation between Nigeria and Poland.
“Football is a universal language that unites people regardless of nationality, ethnicity or religion. Through this event, we are building stronger relationships and promoting friendship between both countries,” he added.
The event is expected to attract senior government officials, diplomats, sports administrators, football stakeholders, youth leaders, business executives and members of the international community.
It also follows a series of engagements between the Office of the SSA on Grassroots Sports Development and the Polish Embassy on sports exchange programmes, youth empowerment initiatives and grassroots sports development.
Ahead of the gathering, Polish Ambassador to Nigeria, Michal Cygan, visited the venue to assess preparations and commended the organisers for the level of planning. He described the event as an important step toward strengthening relations between Nigeria and Poland.
Guests are expected to arrive from 6:45 p.m., while the Nigeria versus Poland international friendly match will kick off at 7:45 p.m.
With the confirmation of Vice President Shettima and SGF Akume, expectations are high for what is expected to be one of Abuja’s biggest sports diplomacy events of the year.
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