Photo: FIFA VP Jack Warner hands the FIFA U17 World Cup trophy to Dr Goodluck Johnathan, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. On his left is the Minister of Sport of Nigeria, Sani Ndusa, Also seen in picture is tournament mascot, Bobo.FIFA Vice President Jack Warner has declared Nigeria ready to host this years's FIFA U-17 tournament, which is scheduled to be played from Oct. 24 to Nov. 15 at venues in Abuja, Bauchi, Calabar, Enugu, Ijebu-Ode, Kaduna, Kano and Lagos.
Warner is chairman of the FIFA Youth Committee and leads the FIFA team that's organizing the world event.
Earlier this year he had expressed concern about delays in getting facilities ready on time, but still remained confident that the Nigerian authorities would meet the targets and pass the crucial FIFA tests.
Now, after two major inspections Nigeria has satisfied FIFA’s requirements and everything is in top gear for the kickoff of the games later in the year.
At a ceremony to mark the official draw for the tournament members of the local organizing committee (LOC) praised Warner for having faith in Nigeria's ability to deliver.
Warner thanked his hosts and the country’s Vice President, Dr Goodluck Johnathan, for their determination and perseverance.
"I know it has been difficult and I know that I have not been the easiest on you, but that is only because I believe in what this nation can do, and now you have done it," Warner said.
The draw also included the unveiling of the official mascot of the tournament. Organizers chose Bobo the eaglet due to the eagle’s intrinsic link with Nigeria. He symbolises the friendliness and strength of the Nigerian people and also represents the passion that football arouses in the host country.
Warner is chairman of the FIFA Youth Committee and leads the FIFA team that's organizing the world event.
Earlier this year he had expressed concern about delays in getting facilities ready on time, but still remained confident that the Nigerian authorities would meet the targets and pass the crucial FIFA tests.
Now, after two major inspections Nigeria has satisfied FIFA’s requirements and everything is in top gear for the kickoff of the games later in the year.
At a ceremony to mark the official draw for the tournament members of the local organizing committee (LOC) praised Warner for having faith in Nigeria's ability to deliver.
Warner thanked his hosts and the country’s Vice President, Dr Goodluck Johnathan, for their determination and perseverance.
"I know it has been difficult and I know that I have not been the easiest on you, but that is only because I believe in what this nation can do, and now you have done it," Warner said.
The draw also included the unveiling of the official mascot of the tournament. Organizers chose Bobo the eaglet due to the eagle’s intrinsic link with Nigeria. He symbolises the friendliness and strength of the Nigerian people and also represents the passion that football arouses in the host country.
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