Edet Ikotidem
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, underwent a final inspection by a CAF delegation in preparation for the start of the inaugural season of the Africa Football League in October of this year.
Otuekong Bonny Nyong, the head of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association Normalization Committee, gave the CAF delegation, which was led by Africa Football League Director of Competition Duccio Ticciati, a tour of the facilities at the iconic stadium, which can seat 30,000 people.
The Main Bowl, Training Pitch, VVIP and VIP Sections, Control Room, Giant Screens, VAR Room, Sound System, Media Centre, Fans Village, Conference Room, Lighting, Dressing Rooms, Toilets, Entrances, etc. are among the facilities inspected during the four-hour tour.
The delegation had already visited the Four Points by Sheraton Hotels in Ikot Ekpene, the Ibom Icon Hotels, and the Monty Suites in Uyo.
Also read: CAF Champions League: Enyimba of Aba Play Al-Ahly of Egypt, Remo Stars Take on Medeama Sporting Club of Ghana
Enyimba International, the current Nigerian champions and two-time CAF Champions, will play their home matches at the stadium during the competition, which has been drastically cut from the original proposal of 24 to 8 teams.
Al Ahly of Egypt, Wydad Casablanca of Morocco, the runners-up in the 2023 CAF Champions League, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa, and Esperance of Tunisia are the other teams in the lineup.
The other participating teams in the competition are the 11-time CAF champions TP Mazembe of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Petro Luanda of Angola, and Simba of Tanzania.
The Africa Football League, according to CAF, will support the expansion of club football, the building and upkeep of football facilities, the development and retention of football talent in Africa, and the training of players with an initial investment of $100 million.
