Akwa Ibom Stadium Opening: Jonathan, Pele To Be Special Guests

President Goodluck Jonathan together with other iconic figures such as Brazilian soccer legend Pele will be special guests of honor at the inauguration of the Akwa Ibom Stadium when it opens on November 7.

Nigerian national football team, Super Eagles, who is current African Soccer Champions, is billed to clash with neighbors and archrivals, the Ghana Black Stars, in an international friendly as part of highlights to officially inaugurate the new facility in Uyo.

The Black Stars were chosen because Ghana and Nigeria have a healthy rivalry when it comes to football and this choice were welcomed by many.

According to organizers, there will also be other activities including music and dance lined up as part of business marking the opening of the ultra-modern facility. They say the best of Akwa Ibom culture will be showcased to spectators.

Reportedly, the 30,000 seating-capacity Akwa Ibom stadium is reputed to be the best in the West African sub-region and has been compared to South Africa's Soccer City.

Nigeria’s last group game against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) will also be played at this stadium on November 19.