Nigeria’s proposed send-forth international friendly against DR Congo on May 28 has been cast in doubt by reports of a recurrent outbreak of Ebola in the East African country, whose side are expected in Port Harcourt on May 26.
Though nothing concrete has been said by Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) about cancelling the match, feelers from The Glasshouse indicate that officials have already contacted CAF, FIFA and the ministry of health for advice on the matter.
It was learnt further that plans are already in place to ensure the visitors are checked properly on arrival in Nigeria, after which the verdict from medical experts would determining whether the game would go ahead or not.
This week, DRC reported cases of Ebola and, in response to the development, the NFF said should there be any danger of the disease spreading in Nigeria, the game to bid the Eagles farewell to the World Cup will be called off.
The NFF have also contacted the ministry of health and Nigeria Immigration Service over the expected arrival of DR Congo’s contingent in Port Harcourt on board a chartered flight two days to the friendly.
An official disclosed: “Both CAF and FIFA have been informed of the situation. We will stop the game on medical advice because we cannot risk any lives. In the meantime, the visiting team will be fully screened on arrival in the country for the game.”
