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By Goli Innocent
Former Super Eagles captain, Jay-Jay Okocha, alongside Kanu Nwankwo, Finidi George, Daniel Amokachi and other African football greats, are set to thrill fans at the African Legends United Gala Match scheduled for March 28 in Abuja.
Kanu confirmed his participation on Thursday while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the African Continental Free Trade Area Festival, ACFTA Fest, in Abuja, describing the match as a unique celebration of African culture, unity and grassroots development.
According to the former Arsenal and Inter Milan striker, the decision of the legends to take part goes beyond football, as the event is aimed at inspiring young Africans and promoting a shared continental identity.
“It’s happening in Nigeria, and the legends are going to be there. They will do what we know how to do, perform and make everyone enjoy it. We are involved because we want to promote African culture and empower the grassroots,” Kanu said.
He explained that hosting the event in Nigeria makes it even more special, noting that African legends from different parts of the continent would be converging to give back to society.
“This is about Africa. We want young people growing up to understand their roots and think about their continent. It’s also about giving back, and that’s why we all agreed to be part of this project,” he added.
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Kanu confirmed that himself, Jay-Jay Okocha, Daniel Amokachi and other former stars would be featuring in the match slated for March 28.
Also speaking, former Cameroonian international Eyond Enoh said the ACFTA Fest would run from March 26 to March 28, with the Legends Gala Match taking place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Enoh described unity as a core value of the match, stressing that meaningful unity requires deliberate action and initiatives.
“The only difference between Cameroon and Nigeria is a colonial line. I don’t see myself just as a Cameroonian; I see myself as an African. The ACFTA and this festival are meant to replace the lines that divide us with lines that unite us,” he said.
He added that the festival aligns with the vision of a united Africa, driven by the ideals of “one Africa, one market, one future.”
The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that ACFTA Fest 2026 will feature several activities, including Startup Fames, Heritage Waves and the African Legends United Gala Match, as part of efforts to celebrate African integration through sports, culture and enterprise.
