SIFAX Group, one of the major sponsors of the Nigerian Football Supporters Club (NFSC) to the recently-concluded African Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Cote d’ Ivoire, has said the desire to see the country lift the continental trophy for the fourth time and forging unity across the country was the driving force behind its support for the supporters’ club.
According to Olumuyiwa Akande, Group Head, Corporate Communications, SIFAX Group has always been a great supporter of Nigerian football and has established a great relationship with NFSC over the years, resulting in sponsorship to some major football tournaments.
He said: “As an indigenous conglomerate, our passion and loyalty lie in Nigeria succeeding in all endeavours. Football is a unifying factor for us as Nigerians, and SIFAX Group takes the issue of national unity and development seriously. All fault lines across religion, ethnicity, and politics disappear anytime the national football teams play. SIFAX Group wants to further engender that spirit of unity and togetherness through football. Clinching the trophy for the fourth time was also a great attraction.
“The company found the platform of the supporters’ club as a veritable one to achieve these objectives. The impact of the supporters’ club on the success of our national teams cannot be overemphasized. Through thick and thin, the club is available at major tournaments and games to encourage the players and promote the interest of the nation. These patriotic and selfless Nigerians deserve to be supported.”
Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, President General, NFSC, said the club would have been stranded and unable to support the team during the tournament if corporate organisations like SIFAX Group didn’t support them.
“I am grateful to Dr. Taiwo Afolabi and the SIFAX Group for their timely and consistent support for our activities. The travel costs for our members are very huge considering the one-month duration of the tournament. We pay for transport, feeding, and accommodation for all our members. I am grateful for this sponsorship, alongside other companies and individuals,” he said.
