Adeboye to host Shettima, Akume in historic Nigeria–Poland Watch Party in Abuja

Adeboye to host Shettima, Akume in historic Nigeria–Poland Watch Party in Abuja

Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, has officially confirmed his attendance as Chairman of the Day at the highly anticipated Nigeria–Poland Football Watch Party, while the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, will attend 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, as part of broader efforts to strengthen sports diplomacy, youth engagement, and bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Poland.

Speaking ahead of the event, SSA Adeboye described the confirmation of both top government officials as a strong reflection of the importance 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 sees sports—not just as entertainment, but as a major platform for youth empowerment, diplomacy, peace, economic opportunities, and national development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President.”

Adeboye noted that President Tinubu’s vision continues to prioritize young people through policies and initiatives capable of creating opportunities, promoting inclusion, and strengthening grassroots engagement across the country.

“Mr. President believes strongly in the power of Nigerian youths and understands the role sports can play in transforming lives, creating jobs, promoting unity, and projecting Nigeria positively to the world.”

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

“The Vice President has consistently shown 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 praised SGF Senator George Akume for his support for developmental programmes that positively impact Nigerian youths and strengthen national integration.

“The SGF’s attendance also demonstrates 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 represents more than a football gathering, describing it as a strategic platform designed to promote friendship, cultural exchange, international cooperation, and youth-focused engagement.

“Football remains a universal language capable of bringing people together beyond borders, religion, or ethnicity. Through this event, we are building stronger relationships and creating a platform for unity and friendship.”

The high-profile gathering is expected to attract 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 focused on grassroots sports development, sports exchange programmes, youth empowerment, and bilateral partnerships between both countries.

Ahead of the event, the Polish Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Michal Cygan, paid an inspection visit to the venue where he commended 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, while kickoff for the Nigeria vs Poland international friendly match is scheduled for 7:45 PM.

With Vice President Shettima and SGF Akume now confirmed for the occasion, expectations continue to rise for what many observers are already calling one of the biggest sports diplomacy gatherings in Abuja this year.