Wednesday, June 17, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

AFCON fever hits Lagos, as Total Energies parade trophy

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L-R: Shop Food and Services (SFS) & Marketing Manager, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Gombe; General Manager, Retail & Cards, Alhaji Abdulahi Umar; Managing Director of TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, Dr. Samba Seye; Executive Director, Human Resources & Corporate Services, Mrs. Olubunmi Popoola-Mordi; and Network Development & Optimisation Manager, Samir Mrad at the unveiling of the AFCON Trophy by TotalEnergies in Lagos.

By Emma Jemegah

The spirit of African football roared through Lagos on Wednesday as the TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 Trophy Tour made a dazzling stop in Nigeria’s commercial capital — igniting excitement, pride, and anticipation ahead of Africa’s biggest football festival.

Organised by TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, the grand tour brought the glittering Africa Cup of Nations trophy to the heart of Lagos, giving fans, media, and football lovers a chance to witness up close the symbol of continental supremacy that every African nation dreams of lifting.

From the glittering skyline of Victoria Island to the buzzing streets of Ikeja, the city pulsed with energy as the trophy — escorted by officials, entertainers, and passionate supporters — made its presence felt.

The event marked another milestone in TotalEnergies’ long-standing commitment to powering African football and uniting fans across borders through sport, passion, and progress.

The tour kicked off with a press briefing at Eko Tower 2, Victoria Island, where company executives and CAF representatives spoke about the partnership that continues to strengthen football across the continent.

Later, the celebration moved to Marcellina’s Place in Ikeja, where fans thronged to take photos, enjoy music, and celebrate the countdown to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.

“Football is the heartbeat of Africa, and we’re proud to be part of a journey that inspires millions,” said a TotalEnergies spokesperson, describing the Trophy Tour as “a celebration of unity, energy, and the unstoppable African spirit.”

The Lagos leg of the tour showcased the fusion of culture, sport, and community engagement that defines TotalEnergies’ approach to corporate partnership — from youth development initiatives to grassroots football empowerment across Nigeria.

As the trophy continues its journey through Africa ahead of the December 2025 kickoff in Morocco, Lagos fans were left with one resounding message: the road to glory begins here.

The TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 Trophy Tour is more than a pre-tournament showcase — it’s a reminder that football’s true power lies not just in competition, but also in connection. And on this day, Lagos was truly the heartbeat of African football.

“We are delighted to host the first stage of the Trophy Tour here in Lagos, Nigeria and kick off the 2025 tournament. Being the partner of African football is a great source of pride. Football is a universal, federating sport that is synonymous with joy, enthusiasm and, of course, energy,” said Dr. Samba Seye. Managing Director.

“So today, as we stand before this golden trophy, let us remember what it represents: not just victory, but unity, resilience, and the dreams of millions.

“To our fans, partners, and football family thank you for being part of this moment. Let’s celebrate the spirit of African football together. Let’s cheer, connect, and carry this energy forward as we count down to AFCON Morocco 2025. Let the journey begin. Let the passion rise. And let the trophy shine,” adds the General Manager, Retail & Cards, Alhaji Abdulahi Umar.