By Abubakar Yunusa
The Nigeria–Morocco Commerce and Development Forum (NM-CDF) has launched a support initiative for Nigerians in Morocco attending the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), using sports diplomacy to deepen bilateral relations between both countries.
The initiative, coordinated through the Office of the Vice President of the Forum, by Mohammed Tijjani Sabiu and backed by Barau Jibrin, the Forum’s President, is designed to ensure strong Nigerian representation at AFCON matches while promoting unity, cultural exchange, and people-to-people cooperation.
Under the programme, Nigerians resident 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, and branded support materials such as flags, caps, and banners.
Speaking on the initiative, Sabiu in a statement described sports as a powerful tool for national cohesion and international engagement, noting that the Forum was committed to removing 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, President of the Forum said the programme aligns with NM-CDF’s broader mandate of strengthening economic, cultural, and diplomatic cooperation between Nigeria and Morocco.
According to him, sports diplomacy remains an effective avenue for building trust and fostering long-term partnerships.
“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 has had a significant impact on the Nigerian community in Morocco, particularly students, workers, and business travellers who might otherwise struggle to attend AFCON matches.
With logistics largely taken care of, Nigerian supporters turned out in large numbers, adding colour, music, and cultural flair to stadiums across host cities.
According to the statement, several beneficiaries have described the gesture as unprecedented, lauding the Forum for what they called a historic and inclusive approach to diaspora engagement.
The Forum has confirmed that the support programme will continue throughout the duration of AFCON 2025 and may be expanded if the Super Eagles advance to the later stages of the competition.
The Nigeria–Morocco Commerce and Development Forum is a bilateral platform focused on promoting trade, investment, tourism, cultural exchange, and diplomatic cooperation between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Morocco, with particular attention to diaspora welfare and engagement.
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