By Ayomide Otitoju
MTN Nigeria, the official telecommunications partner of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Super Eagles following their hard-fought draw against Zimbabwe in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.
The telecom giant had earlier expressed confidence in the national team, building on their recent victory against Rwanda. Tobe Okigbo, Chief Corporate Services & Sustainability Officer at MTN Nigeria, had stated ahead of the match, “We are confident in the team’s ability to make Nigeria proud and qualify for the World Cup.”
Despite the draw, MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, maintained a positive outlook, emphasizing the company’s continued belief in the team. “While tonight’s outcome wasn’t what we hoped for, we remain steadfast in our support for the Super Eagles. This result is just part of the journey towards World Cup qualification, and we believe in the team’s resilience and ability to succeed,” he said.
The match saw the Super Eagles display grit and determination, taking an early lead before Zimbabwe fought back to secure a draw. The result adds to the intensity of Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign.
Since becoming the Official Telecoms Partner of the NFF in 2021, MTN Nigeria has played a significant role in the development of Nigerian football, investing in both grassroots and national-level initiatives.
Toriola reiterated MTN’s commitment, stating, “Our support for the Super Eagles and all national teams is part of our long-standing tradition. We are building a sustainable legacy of collaboration, growth, and development in the football space. Tonight’s result doesn’t change our belief in the team’s potential to make all Nigerians proud on the global stage.”
As the Super Eagles prepare for their next World Cup qualifier, MTN Nigeria has called on all Nigerians to rally behind the team, emphasizing that collective support will be crucial in overcoming challenges and securing a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
