Presidential aspirant Bola Tinubu on Saturday received ex-internationals led by Austin Okocha and Nwankwo Kanu ahead of the novelty football match to celebrate his 70th birthday.
Tinubu posted to social media photos of the visit, saying he thanked the ex-Super Eagles for their service to Nigeria.
“The beautiful game of football is one sport that unites Nigerians of all walks of life – regardless of age, status, tribe or religion,” he said.
“Today, I received some ex-players of our National Football team, the Super Eagles. I thanked them for their service to country and they shared with me, their plans towards the novelty football match being organised to celebrate my birthday in a few days.
“We also spoke extensively about Nigeria’s upcoming qualifiers for the World Cup at Qatar. Together, we will soar like eagles. That’s my prayer for Nigeria.”
During the visit, one of the former players Taribo West, who is now a pastor, prayed fervently for Tinubu to achieve his aim to be president in 2023. The former Lagos State governor looked with keen interest as West prayed.
The former players, which will also include Peter Rufai, Tijani Babangida, Mutiu Adepoju, Garba Lawal, among others, will star against Team Asiwaju that will comprise prominent members of Tinubu’s political circle.
The game will be played at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan Lagos on Sunday.
