Accra, Feb. 20, GNA - A thirteen-member delegation of the Local Organising Committee of the Nigeria 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup has lauded the LOC of the 26th MTN Africa Cup of Nations, Ghana 2008 for organizing a successful tournament. The delegation which was in the country to explore new ways of staging a successful tournament met with representatives of the LOC. Mr. Mainasara Illo, Chief Executive of the Nigerian 2009, who led the team said they had been impressed with the organizational abilities displayed by Ghanaians during CAN 2008. "We have been really impressed right from day one, when we set foot at the Kotoka International Airport."

He commended the volunteers for the kind reception they exhibited during the tournament and expressed delight at the massive patronage of the championship, the huge merchandizing that took place and the euphoria generated by supporters, fans and the general public. Mr. Illo expressed enthusiasm at the manner in which Ghana's colours were paraded throughout the period of the tournament. The Nigeria 2009 LOC chairman applauded the ticketing system, where tickets were sold days ahead of matches.

He rated high the waste disposal system adopted during the tournament amidst the rather, slow and ineffective accreditation process.

Mr. Illo finally assured that his team would be in constant touch with the Ghanaian LOC in their quest to organize a successful tournament next year.

Ato Kwame Essah, Deputy Chief Operating Officer of the Ghana 2008 LOC highlighted his outfit's stance to use special events and occasions such as Stanbic Trophy Tour among others to induce corporate interest and collaborations to excite the public. The team has since left for Nigeria.