On December 14, 2023, on this same page, I wrote an article titled, “Whither Nigeria as Morocco, Saudi host World Cup.” This is the opening paragraph of the article:
There is a sense in which we can claim that Morocco’s bid to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Portugal and Spain and Saudi Arabia’s 2034 has been remarkable for the Arab world and Africa. This opportunity presents numerous lessons for both regions, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships, infrastructure development, and sports diplomacy. This is where Nigeria’s duty bearers, who are so obsessed with politics, often divert their focus from governance and the fundamental objectives of state policies…”
I hope the officials of the Nigerian football federation, who are managing the Nigerian players in Morocco and those watching the AFCON 2025 from home or while on holiday in Europe and North America, are paying close attention to the finer details of the football festival. The reason for this is clear: The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is much more than just another football tournament in Morocco. It represents the culmination of decades of effort and a long-term strategy that has positioned the country as a premier destination for major international sports and cultural events. Our leaders must set aside politics and frivolous lifestyles at this time and observe how Morocco is leveraging sports as a tool for development.
Moreover, the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 is proving to be more than just a sporting spectacle for Morocco, with projected economic benefits soaring to 12 billion dirhams (about $1.2 billion). The tournament is serving as a powerful engine for growth, as highlighted by Moroccan media.
Between 600,000 and one million visitors have flocked to the host cities, creating an unprecedented demand for hotels, restaurants, transport, and local businesses, according to the Moroccan magazine Challenge. Our leaders in Nigeria need to take note of this opportunity.
