Nigerians living in South Africa have thrown their full weight behind the Super Eagles as they prepare to face Bafana Bafana in Bloemfontein in a decisive FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Speaking in a telephone interview on Tuesday, Frank Onyekwelu, President-General of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA), said the community had mobilised extensively to cheer the national team.
“We are eager for victory and for Nigeria to qualify for the World Cup. We have fully mobilised Nigerians here in South Africa to come out and support the Super Eagles in today’s match,” Onyekwelu stated.
He explained that NICASA had, in collaboration with the Nigerian Consulate in South Africa, sensitised members of the Nigerian community on the importance of standing behind the team.
“We know it always feels like a power tussle whenever Nigeria and South Africa meet on the field, but we believe this will not raise unnecessary dust,” he added.
Onyekwelu highlighted that the association had been promoting the “power of Mbotu”—which he described as the African spirit of openness and unity—to encourage peaceful coexistence among fans.
“We have been preaching tolerance, patriotism, and law-abiding conduct among Nigerians,” he said.
NICASA has also been working with local law enforcement and security agencies to guarantee safety around the match. “The union has sensitised Nigerians to live decently and avoid any form of provocation or confrontation around this crucial fixture,” he noted.
Confident in Nigeria’s chances, Onyekwelu assured that the players would not be short of encouragement from their compatriots in South Africa.
“One thing is sure—the Super Eagles will hear, see, and feel our support. We shall ginger them to victory,” he declared.
Nigeria sits on 10 points following Saturday’s 1-0 win over Rwanda, just one behind second-placed Benin. South Africa leads the group with 16 points from seven games after their 3-0 triumph against Lesotho.
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