The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has initiated talks with the Lagos State Government over the planned fundraising dinner for the Super Eagles ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations holding in South Africa from Jan. 19 to Feb. 10. Lagos State Governor Raji Fashola (see photo) is said to be very disposed to idea of hosting the fund raising dinner.

December 22 has been set aside as tentative date of for the dinner, according to the Lagos newspaper, ThisDay. The dinner is expected to be attended by captains of industry and influential dignitaries of the Nigerian society. It will be held at one of the leading hotels on Lagos Island.

“But concern about the closeness of date to the end of the year is also prompting NFF to weigh the option of hosting the event early next year, before the Super Eagles jet to South Africa for the Africa Cup of Nations campaign,” according to the report.

The proceeds from the fundraising effort will augment the federal government’s grant to the NFF to enable the national team participate in the continent’s flagship football competition.

The decision to source for funds from alternative window, notably from public spirited business men and women, was one of the decisions taken by the NFF Board at a special Emergency Meeting in Abuja on November 28. State governors who are known to for their inclination for sports, especially football are equally expected to attend the event.