Abuja: Diplomats and stakeholders have highlighted the role of football in promoting unity, cultural exchange, and stronger bilateral relations among nations. They spoke during a football viewing party organized by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development in collaboration with the Polish Embassy in Nigeria at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was organized to watch the international friendly match between Nigeria and Poland and attracted football enthusiasts, government officials, and members of the diplomatic community. Nigeria’s Super Eagles were denied victory after conceding a stoppage-time equalizer in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Poland in Warsaw.
Speaking after the event, Michal Cygan, the Head of Mission/Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Pruszk³w, Poland in Nigeria, described the encounter as an exciting spectacle that demonstrated football’s unique ability to unite people across borders. ‘It did not look like a friendly game. It looked like a thriller for the next blockbuster. The result reflects the quality of both teams, and we are delighted by the enthusiasm shown by supporters both in Warsaw and Abuja,’ he said. Cygan emphasized that sports remain an effective platform for fostering friendship and mutual understanding among nations.
According to him, football provides opportunities for people from different backgrounds to connect through shared experiences and positive engagement. He reaffirmed Poland’s commitment to supporting sports development initiatives in Nigeria, particularly programs aimed at nurturing young talents.
Also speaking, Supachoke Yensuang, Minister Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Royal Thai Embassy in Abuja, described football as a universal language capable of strengthening diplomatic relations. ‘Football is the number one sport in both Thailand and Nigeria. It provides an avenue for bringing people together and strengthening relations between countries. We look forward to future opportunities for sporting exchanges between Thailand and Nigeria, including possible matches involving national teams or former international players,’ he said.
Similarly, Amb. Kingsley Obasohan, of the European African Chamber of Commerce and Industries, said sports remained one of the most effective tools for fostering peaceful coexistence and international cooperation. According to him, sporting activities transcend political, cultural and social differences, creating platforms for dialogue and mutual respect. ‘Sports provide a veritable platform through which nations can unite irrespective of their differences. It is one of the most powerful instruments for building stronger relationships among countries,’ he said.
NAN reports that stakeholders at the event agreed that sports diplomacy continues to play a significant role in promoting friendship, youth development, and international partnerships across the world. The result forms part of Nigeria’s preparations for upcoming international fixtures, including a friendly match against Portugal on June 10.