Governor Ambode orders opening of additional World Cup viewing centre as football fever grips Lagosians

LAGOS State's Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has bowed to pressure from soccer-crazy Nigerian football fans and opened a fresh World Cup Viewing Centre in Ikorodu after the nation got gripped by a frenzy after the Super Eagles beat Iceland 2-0 on Friday.

On Friday, Nigeria's Super Eagles re-ignited their World Cup campaign with a convincing victory over Iceland and look on course to qualify for the last 16 now. On Tuesday, Nigeria faces an Argentina side wracked by internal strife and division and a draw will see the Eagles qualify for the next round of the tournament.

Following the win over Iceland, Nigeria has been gripped by football fever as the fans trooped out all over the country to celebrate the win. With fans now wanting to see more of the team, Governor Ambode has succumbed to pressure and ordered that a new viewing centre be opened at Ikorodu immediately.

This gesture now gives Lagosians living in that area of the state the opportunity to watch subsequent games lives. So far, fans have been trooping in large number to the six viewing centres provided by the state government opened just before the tournament kicked off but it appears that demand has now outstripped supply.

Currently, the six centres are located at Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Campos Mini Stadium Lagos Island, Abesan playground Alimosho, Naval Yard playground Ajegunle, Bishop Aggrey Youth Centre Mushin and the Epe Recreation Centre. However, Titi Oshodi of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), said arrangements have been put in place to ensure the speedy provision of the new Ikorodu centre.

Ms Oshodi said: “The Ikorodu World Cup Viewing Centre will be located at the Ikorodu Town Hall and will be in place this weekend. LSSC director-general Babatunde Bank-Anthony has confirmed this new development of creating an additional World Cup Viewing Centre in Ikorodu as ordered by the governor.

“The World Cup Viewing Centres are Governor Ambode’s magnanimity to give Lagosians the opportunity of having a feel of football action in the ongoing World Cup. These viewing centres will also serve as fun and relaxation spots for the people.”