The absence of the Super Eagles from the ongoing FIFA World Cup has taken a toll on football viewing centres across Akoko communities in Ondo State, with operators reporting a sharp drop in patronage.
Findings showed that viewing centres in Akungba-Akoko, Arigidi-Akoko, Oka-Akoko and Ikare-Akoko have witnessed lower attendance compared with previous editions of the tournament when Nigeria featured.
Many operators blamed the poor turnout on the absence of the Super Eagles, noting that fans usually throng their centres whenever Nigeria or other African countries are in action.
A viewing centre operator in Arigidi-Akoko, John Ogunbiyi, said business had slowed considerably since the tournament began.
According to him, patronage has fallen below expectations, adding that previous World Cups attracted large crowds whenever the Super Eagles or other African teams played.
A football enthusiast, Emmanuel Fagoye, said Nigerians remained deeply attached to the national team, stressing that many fans had lost interest in the competition because the country failed to qualify.
Another football lover, Teddy Ojuolape, urged the government and football authorities to improve preparations for future qualification campaigns, warning that missing major tournaments affects both supporters and businesses that rely on football-related activities.
Residents expressed optimism that the Super Eagles would qualify for future editions of the World Cup, restoring the excitement and commercial benefits usually associated with the global football tournament.
0 Comments