Atiku says Arsenal’s resilience can inspire Nigeria’s renewal

Former Nigerian Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has said Arsenal’s resilience could inspire Nigeria’s journey towards national renewal. According to the Independent Newspaper Nigeria, Atiku, represented by Senator Dino Melaye, made the remarks at the inauguration of Arsenal Fans Club Nigeria in Abuja on Tuesday.

He expressed optimism that the club’s fighting spirit could encourage Nigerians to overcome their challenges. “By the grace of God, very soon, Nigerians will leave the wilderness and enter the Promised Land,” he said.

Atiku congratulated the club’s National President, Charles Ojugbana, and pledged his support, subsequently becoming its Grand Patron. Ojugbana announced a three-tier expansion plan, targeting chapters in all 36 states by the end of 2027, followed by expansion into universities and cities.

“Every university in Nigeria will have an Arsenal Fans Club, and then we will move to the cities. In the next two years, we intend to have five million registered Nigerians in this club,” he said.

The initiative aims to promote discipline, excellence and support for players of Nigerian descent. Other patrons include Kano Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke, businessman Aliko Dangote and former Super Eagles captain Nwankwo Kanu, who also serves as brand ambassador.