Delta ready to host 2027 AFCON – Oborevwori
The Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, stated that the state is ready to serve as one of Nigeria’s host cities for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.
Speaking when he played host to the Confederation of African Football, CAF bidding inspection committee at Government House, Asaba on Tuesday, Governor Oborevwori said the state was peaceful and conducive to host the continental football tournament.
The Governor stated that the state had a reputation for hosting such sports events and assured top-notch security and facilities for the event if chosen.
I extend a special welcome to the inspection team of the Confederation of African Football for this second round of inspections for the 2027 African Nations Cup, which Nigeria and the Republic of Benin will host.
“I welcome you to Delta State and because we are a very peaceful state, Delta state would be among the ones you will select to host the competition in Nigeria.
“Delta State will be among the six states that would be hosting in Nigeria because it’s peaceful and we have a very serene environment with top-notch security, good roads and airport infrastructure.
“We have hosted several athletes in the past including the Senior African Athletics Championship in 2018 and the National Sports Festival in 2022.
As a state, we have a renowned reputation for hosting high-class sports events, and we haven’t experienced any instances of insecurity or received any negative reports.
“We possess one of the best stadiums in the country, and I can assure you that if Delta State is selected, we will offer excellent event hosting.
“By the time you finish your inspection am quite sure that we will pass even as I assure you that Delta State is more than ready to host the 36th African Cup of Nations.
“Since 2018 when we hosted the CAA, the hospitality industry in Asaba has experienced more growth, with more hotels arriving in the city. Furthermore, we will complete more top-class hotels before the hosting date,” the governor declared.
Earlier, Mainasara Illoh, the Bid Coordinator for Nigeria and Benin Republic, stated that the team visited Delta State because they found Asaba worthy of being proposed as a host city.
Illoh stated that Nigeria was expected to provide six venues while Benin Republic provides two.
He mentioned that other countries also held an interest in hosting the 36th Edition of the African Cup of Nations and encouraged the State Government to invest more in enhancing the facilities used for previous sports events. This step would increase the State’s likelihood of selection.
