By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Nigeria–Morocco Commerce and Development Forum (NM-CDF) has unveiled a special support initiative for Nigerians in Morocco attending the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), leveraging sports diplomacy to strengthen bilateral ties between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Morocco.

The initiative, coordinated through the Office of the Vice President of the Forum, Mohammed Tijjani Sabiu, and supported by the Forum’s President, Barau Jibrin, is aimed at ensuring strong Nigerian presence at AFCON matches while promoting unity, cultural exchange and people-to-people cooperation between both countries.

Under the programme, Nigerians residing in or travelling across Morocco are provided with free transportation from major cities to match venues, complimentary accommodation, daily feeding allowances, free Super Eagles jerseys, stadium entry tickets, as well as branded support items including flags, caps and banners.

Speaking on the initiative, Sabiu said in a statement that sports remains a powerful tool for national cohesion and international engagement, stressing the Forum’s commitment to eliminating financial and logistical barriers that could limit fan participation.

“Our objective is to ensure that Nigerians in Morocco feel supported and included. Football unites our people and presents an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s energy, culture, and resilience on an international platform,” he said.

On his part, the President of the Forum said the programme aligns with NM-CDF’s wider mandate of strengthening economic, cultural and diplomatic cooperation between Nigeria and Morocco.

According to him, sports diplomacy continues to serve as an effective channel for building trust and fostering long-term partnerships between nations.

“This initiative goes beyond football. It is about national pride, unity, and reinforcing the strong relationship between Nigeria and Morocco. We are proud to play a role in making this AFCON experience memorable for Nigerians,” Jibrin stated.

The support initiative has made a significant impact within the Nigerian community in Morocco, particularly among students, workers and business travellers who may have otherwise been unable to attend AFCON matches.

With major logistical challenges addressed, Nigerian supporters have turned out in large numbers, bringing colour, music and cultural flair to stadiums across the host cities.

According to the statement, several beneficiaries described the gesture as unprecedented, commending the Forum for what they termed a historic and inclusive approach to diaspora engagement.

The Forum confirmed that the support programme will run throughout the duration of AFCON 2025 and may be expanded should the Super Eagles progress to the later stages of the tournament.

The Nigeria–Morocco Commerce and Development Forum is a bilateral platform dedicated to promoting trade, investment, tourism, cultural exchange and diplomatic cooperation between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Morocco, with a strong focus on diaspora welfare and engagement.