Niger has become the first country to arrive in Uganda ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), setting the stage for the continental football showpiece.
The Niger national football team was treated to a vibrant Ugandan welcome upon touching down at Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday afternoon. Their arrival marked the beginning of what promises to be a colorful and competitive tournament, as Uganda prepares to host the continent’s top home-based talent for the very first time.
Dressed in their signature green and orange tracksuits, the Niger delegation was ushered in through the arrivals terminal where they were met with an energetic display of traditional Ugandan dance and music. Cultural performers from the Crane Troupe entertained the visitors with vibrant rhythms, drumming, and acrobatic movements, offering a lively taste of Ugandan heritage.
One of the highlights of the reception was the giant silverback gorilla statue strategically placed at the terminal exit. The statue, a symbol of Uganda’s famed wildlife, caught the attention of many Niger players, who pulled out their phones to snap photos and selfies. Adding to the spectacle were individuals dressed in gorilla costumes, who mingled with the arriving delegation to the delight of both players and officials.
The team appeared visibly impressed, with several players moving slowly from the airport building, clearly eager to enjoy every moment of the welcome ceremony. The cultural performances extended all the way to the team bus, where many in the squad lingered to appreciate the entertainment.
After the warm reception, the team was escorted to their official accommodation at Protea Hotel Skyz in Naguru, where they will be based throughout the tournament.
Niger have been drawn in Group C, alongside hosts Uganda, South Africa, Algeria, and Guinea. Despite being the lowest-ranked team in the group, the West Africans are determined to make their presence felt on the big stage.
Their opening match is scheduled for Monday at 5:00 PM, when they take on Guinea in what promises to be a competitive start to their CHAN 2024 campaign.
With spirits high and a memorable welcome behind them, Team Niger now shifts focus to preparations as they aim to defy expectations.