Football icons to light up Abuja as Kanu, Okocha, Amokachi lead african legends gala match

Former Super Eagles captain Nwankwo Kanu has confirmed his participation in the African Legends United Gala Match, where he will line up alongside fellow Nigerian greats Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, Daniel Amokachi, Finidi George and other African football icons, Sport360NG reports.

The exhibition match is scheduled for March 28 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, and forms part of activities marking the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Festival.

Kanu disclosed this on Thursday on the sidelines of the AfCFTA Festival in Abuja, explaining that the initiative goes beyond football, with a strong focus on cultural promotion and grassroots empowerment across the continent.

According to the former Arsenal and Inter Milan striker, the legends’ involvement is driven by a shared desire to give back and inspire the next generation of Africans.

“It’s happening in Nigeria and the legends will be there. We will do what we know how to do and ensure everyone enjoys the experience,” Kanu said.

“We are involved in this project because we want to promote African culture and, at the same time, empower the grassroots.”

Kanu added that the match is also intended to foster unity and motivate young Africans through the power of sport.

“This is about giving back. That’s why myself, Jay Jay Okocha, Daniel Amokachi and others all agreed to be part of the event on March 28,” he stated.

Also speaking at the event, former Cameroon international Eyong Enoh revealed that the AfCFTA Festival will run from March 26 to 28, with the legends’ match serving as the highlight on the final day.

Enoh described the game as a symbol of African unity, stressing that divisions between countries were largely imposed during the colonial era.

“The difference between Cameroon and Nigeria is just a line drawn during colonial times. I don’t see myself only as a Cameroonian; I see myself as an African,” Enoh said.

He noted that the AfCFTA Festival aims to replace boundaries that divide the continent with initiatives that encourage cooperation and shared identity.

“This festival is about moving from lines that divide us to lines that unite us. Our vision is one Africa, one market, one future, and that’s why I am proud to be part of this initiative,” he added.

In addition to the legends’ match, the AfCFTA Festival will feature startup exhibitions, cultural showcases and other activities designed to celebrate African innovation, heritage and economic integration.