As the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) reaches a thrilling climax in Abidjan, John Umoren, President of ECOWAS Sports and Chairman of E-Sports Mobilization, Reconciliation and Elections (MRE) Committee, has lauded the outstanding performances of ECOWAS teams in this year’s tournament.
In a statement released on Sunday, February 11, Umoren praised the exceptional showing of the ECOWAS nations, noting the remarkable achievement of having two member states face off in the finals.
“May I congratulate the ECOWAS Citizens, its Institutions and indeed the entire ECOWAS Community for the brilliant performance of all the Teams from ECOWAS at the AFCON,” Umoren said.
He emphasized the significance of today’s matchup between two sister countries – Nigeria and Ivory Coast.
The commendation extended beyond the players to include the leadership of the ECOWAS teams, the member states, and the various contributors to the successful hosting of the tournament.
“I also want to congratulate the leadership of all the ECOWAS teams, leadership of member states, other leaders at all levels; Stakeholders and particularly the officiating personnel/officials, volunteers and other support structures for showing ECOWAS in very bright light,” Umoren stated.
He further highlighted the collective effort that led to a successful AFCON with over two billion spectators.
Umoren’s pride was palpable as he mentioned the quarterfinals, where five ECOWAS teams flew their flags high, representing the community at an advanced stage of the competition.
“It is a great feat indeed and this a testament to the resilience of the ECOWAS countries,” he added.
Umoren also reflected on the broader impacts of sports development, citing its benefits for wealth creation, poverty alleviation, health and wellness, infrastructure development, and integration.
He emphasized the role of sports as a tool for peaceful coexistence and diplomacy, calling it “a melting point for us all.”
As the tournament concludes on a positive note, Umoren’s message of congratulations to ECOWAS carries a tone of hope and encouragement for the future of sports within the community.
The contribution of the teams to the AFCON’s success has certainly not gone unnoticed and sets a high bar for competitions to come.
