Senior officials at the company said they were determined to see the country host a memorable event, itnewsafrica.com reported. “More than a year ago, Globacom, through the Local Organising Committee, of the tournament formally expressed our interest to support Nigeria to host a memorable and world class World Cup that will make the continent proud.

“That process initiated by the expression of interest is what has culminated in the company donating $3m to FIFA,” said Globacom’s Chief Operating Officer, Mohamed Jameel during the ceremony at the weekend. FIFA Vice-President, Chief Jack Warner received the donation on the organisation’s behalf.

The 13th edition of FIFA’s third-oldest tournament will be held between 24 October and 15 November, and the organisers said they went to great lengths to make this first major gathering an event to remember from both a sporting and cultural point of view.