The Lagos State Government has created 20 AFCON Live Viewing Centres as part of its efforts to utilize sports as a vehicle to promote a deep sense of unity and community among residents of the State.
A statement issued by the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) said the initiative tagged: #LagosIsAGoal was designed to provide a conducive platform for the residents to enjoy live matches of the 34th African Cup of Nation ongoing in Ivory Coast which began on Saturday, 13th January 2024.
It added that the State Government erected gigantic TV-size screens at the 20 designated viewing centres located in Surulere, Lagos Island, Yaba, Epe, Oworonshoki, Badagry, Ketu, Ajegunle, Alimosho, Agbado-Oke Odo, Ojo, Festac, Ijegun, Agege, Mushin, Ikorodu, Ojokoro, Abesan, Igbobi-Sabe and Lekki.
While noting that the various venues have witnessed mammoth crowds since the first game on Saturday between the host, Ivory Coast and Guinea Bissau, the release added that the aim is also to ensure that soccer-loving residents across the State give their support to the Super Eagles vying for the fourth AFCON title during their group matches.
One of the viewers at the Surulere Centre, Egbulefu Ugochukwu commended the State Government for the creation of the AFCON Live Viewing Centres.
He said, ”It is a good idea to bring people together to enjoy the AFCON.
Most people can be in their homes enjoying it but it is more enjoyable when you join others during the games. You also share ideas and gain more knowledge about the teams and players”.
In the same vein, Ahmed Akinwale said: “Lagos AFCON viewing centre is a great idea.
The Lagos State Government is doing a great job with the creation of centres across the state for the people to enjoy live matches ongoing in Ivory Coast”.
