Afrobeats sensation Yemi Alade from Nigeria is scheduled to take the stage at the opening ceremony of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Abidjan on Saturday.
The singer verified this information through a post on her official X handle (formerly Twitter), expressing that this opportunity is a realization of her dreams.
“Since 2016, I have envisioned performing at the stadium for football ceremonies surrounded by hundreds of dancers and people.
“Seven years later, I’m performing at AFCON. It is indeed an honour and a dream come true. It’s just the beginning,” she said.
The Nigerian artist will collaborate with other musicians from across Africa for the performance of the theme song ‘Akwaba’ during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). In the Baoule language of Cote d’Ivoire, “Akwaba” translates to “welcome.”
The rendition of the 2023 AFCON anthem will include the participation of the legendary Ivorian group Magic System and Egyptian singer Mohamed Ramadan.
The opening ceremony is set to unfold at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, accommodating up to 60,000 spectators. The tournament, commencing on Saturday with 24 nations competing in six stadiums across five cities, is scheduled to conclude on February 11.