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“Nigeria Is the Beating Heart of African Football” — TotalEnergies’ Olufunmilayo Gombe Leads Emotional Lagos Celebration as AFCON 2025 Trophy Tour Kicks Off

It was smiles, cheers, and golden reflections in Lagos on Wednesday as Mrs. Olufunmilayo Gombe, SFS & Marketing Manager at TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, led the celebration of the TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 Trophy Tour, calling it “a truly special moment for Africa.”

Addressing a packed audience of football fans, dignitaries, and media representatives at the Eko Tower 2, Victoria Island, Mrs. Gombe expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), and the National Sports Commission for their shared vision in bringing the spirit of African football closer to the people.

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“This moment is truly special,” she began warmly. “We thank the Confederation of African Football, the National Sports Commission, and the Nigerian Football Federation for their partnership and shared vision in bringing the spirit of African football closer to the people. We also deeply appreciate the support of our local stakeholders, our media partners, and the passionate fans who continue to energize the game.”

Her remarks captured the emotion of the occasion as the AFCON 2025 Trophy — the golden symbol of continental pride — began its journey across Africa, starting right here in Nigeria.

“As the trophy begins its journey across the continent, we are proud to have started here in our own Lagos, Nigeria — a nation that embodies the heart and soul of African football,” she said to resounding applause. “Thank you for being part of this great celebration. Let the countdown to Morocco 2025 continue with pride, unity, and passion.”

The Lagos event, organised by TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc in collaboration with CAF, kicked off the official TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Trophy Tour, featuring a press conference at Victoria Island and a lively public viewing at Marcellina’s Place, GRA Ikeja. Fans turned out in numbers to celebrate Nigeria’s enduring football heritage and to capture their moment with the trophy.

Under Gombe’s guidance, the celebration reflected TotalEnergies’ commitment not just to sport, but to the shared energy that unites African nations through football. Her words set the tone for what promises to be one of the most inspiring editions of the AFCON Trophy Tour.

“Football connects us all,” she concluded with a smile. “From Nigeria to Morocco, this journey is powered by unity, passion, and the energy that defines Africa.”

As the golden trophy moves on to its next destination, Lagos remains aglow — a city where the heart of African football continues to beat the loudest.