The glittering Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy arrived in Lagos on Wednesday, sparking excitement and admiration among football fans as it began its official continental tour ahead of the next edition of the tournament.
The AFCON Trophy tour, organised by TotalEnergies Nigeria, began with vibrant fanfare and musical performances at Eko Tower 2, Victoria Island.
From there, the iconic trophy made stops at the TotalEnergies Onigbagbo filling station in Maryland before concluding at Marcellina’s Place, Ikeja GRA, where hundreds of enthusiastic supporters gathered to take photos and catch a glimpse of African football’s most coveted silverware.
Speaking at the event, Abdullahi Umar, General Manager of Retail and Cards at TotalEnergies Nigeria, said Lagos was chosen as the starting point of the tour because Nigeria “pulses with the rhythm of the beautiful game.”
“Nigeria holds a special place in African football history. From legendary players to unforgettable moments on the pitch, this country has consistently shaped the narrative of the sport across the continent.
“That’s why we chose to begin this journey here, where football is not just a sport, but a way of life, ” Umar stated.
He explained that the AFCON Trophy Tour will continue across four other African countries, South Africa, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, and Morocco, which would host the next edition of the tournament.
“From Lagos, the Trophy Tour will travel across Africa, building anticipation and excitement ahead of the tournament in Morocco.
”It will touch lives, spark conversations, and remind us of all the magic that football brings,” he added.
Also speaking, Samba Seye, Managing Director of TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Limited, described football as a powerful unifying force across the continent.
“We are delighted to hold the first stage of the tour in Lagos. Being the partner of African football is a great source of pride,” he said.
Seye, who is Senegalese, ended his remarks on a cheerful note, expressing goodwill toward Nigeria’s national team.
“As a Senegalese, I hope the Super Eagles of Nigeria win the next AFCON,” he said with a smile.
At each stop along the tour, crowds of football lovers gathered to take selfies, wave flags, and cheer as the trophy made its way through the city, escorted by a colourful motorcade and lively music.
Many fans described the experience as “historic,” saying it reignited their anticipation for the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco.
