January 18 – An hall of fame to celebrate the achievements of African footballers, such as Cameroon’s Roger Milla (pictured), is set to be launched in Nigeria later this year, it has been revealed.
The scheme is being organised by ASCOFF Events & Entertainment Limited, whose chairman is Chief Francis Inegbeniki, and is designed to mark the 50th anniversary of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The Hall of Fame would be based in either Lagos or Abuja.
He said: ”Over the years, African football has grown to merit recognition from other countries of the world, with the likes of Abedi Pele, Andre Arendse, Daniel Amokachi, Emmanuel Okala, Austin Okocha and host of others who in the last decade have made Africa proud through professional football.
“Many of these likes have lived and passed on without being celebrated.
“Outstanding examples are Teslim Balogun, Sam Okwaraji of blessed memory to name a few.
“Coming at a time when Africa and CAF will be celebrating the 50th Anniversary of football in the continent, and also in this glorious year of Nigeria’s Golden Jubilee as a nation, this leaves no better time to honour and celebrate our great African footballers whose achievement have brought pride and glory to our motherland-Africa.”