Shettima, Akume To Grace Historic Nigeria-Poland Football Watch Party In Abuja

Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima has officially confirmed his attendance as chairman of the Day at the highly anticipated Nigeria-Poland Football Watch Party. He will be joined by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, who will serve as the special guest of honour at the landmark event scheduled for the VIP Lounge, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

The event is being hosted by the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, in collaboration with the Polish Embassy in Abuja.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to bolster sports diplomacy, youth engagement, and bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Poland.

Speaking ahead of the event, SSA Adeboye highlighted that the confirmation of both senior government officials underscores the significance President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration places on sports, youth development, national unity, and international partnerships under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“The confirmation of the Vice President and the SGF clearly shows how this administration views sports—not merely as entertainment, but as a pivotal platform for youth empowerment, diplomacy, peace, economic opportunities, and national development, aligning with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Adeboye emphasised President Tinubu’s ongoing commitment to prioritising young people through policies and initiatives designed to create opportunities, promote inclusion, and strengthen grassroots engagement nationwide.

“Mr. President firmly believes in the power of Nigerian youths and understands the transformative role sports can play in lives, job creation, fostering unity, and positively projecting Nigeria to the world.”

The SSA further noted that the presence of Vice President Kashim Shettima, renowned for his dedication to youth inclusion and national cohesion, would undoubtedly inspire young Nigerians and stakeholders within the sports ecosystem.

“The Vice President has consistently demonstrated a passion for initiatives that unite Nigerians and empower young people. His presence sends a very strong message about the future of sports development in Nigeria.”

Adeboye also commended SGF Senator George Akume for his support of developmental programmes that positively impact Nigerian youths and strengthen national integration.

“The SGF’s attendance further illustrates the Federal Government’s collective commitment to supporting initiatives that connect people through sports, diplomacy, and positive engagement.”

According to the SSA, the watch party transcends a mere football gathering; it represents a strategic platform designed to foster friendship, cultural exchange, international cooperation, and youth-focused engagement.

“Football remains a universal language, capable of uniting people across borders, religions, or ethnicities. Through this event, we are building stronger relationships and creating a platform for unity and friendship.”

This high-profile gathering is expected to draw top government officials, diplomats, sports administrators, football stakeholders, youth leaders, captains of industry, and members of the international community.

The initiative also follows recent engagements between the SSA’s office and the Polish Embassy, focusing on grassroots sports development, sports exchange programmes, youth empowerment, and bilateral partnerships between both nations.

Ahead of the event, the Polish Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Michal Cygan, conducted an inspection visit to the venue. He praised the level of preparation and described the initiative as an important platform for strengthening friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and Poland.

The event will officially commence with guest arrivals at 6:45 PM, with kickoff for the Nigeria vs Poland international friendly match scheduled for 7:45 PM.