FIFA U17 World Cup Nigeria 2009 Emblem Unveiled

The official emblem of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Nigeria 2009 © FIFA

The official emblem of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Nigeria 2009 was unveiled on Monday during a ceremony held in Abuja.

The ceremony was presided over by His Excellency Dr Goodluck Jonathan, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and FIFA Vice-President and Chairman of the Organising Committee for the FIFA U-17 and U-20 World Cups Jack A. Warner.

FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter was unable to attend, but sent the following message: "2009 marks an important phase, with three competitions taking place on the African continent.

"The FIFA U-17 World Cup, as well as the FIFA Confederations Cup and the FIFA U-20 World Cup are key steps towards the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

"Traditionally, the FIFA U-17 World Cup has been a key platform for education, development and emerging new talents."

The Official Emblem for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Nigeria 2009 embodies the vibrant spirit of this regional football powerhouse.

The stylised eagle with its sharp edges running into flowing round forms and the directional lines represent the masculine, dynamic and powerful personality of the tournament.

The two-toned green colours play off each other, are representative of Nigeria and have an intrinsic connection to football.

The 24 top teams from all over the world will compete in the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2009 from 24 October to 15 November.

Nigeria previously hosted the FIFA World Youth Championship in 1999 and can look back on considerable achievements in youth tournaments, such as triumphs at the FIFA U-17 World Youth Championship in 1985 and 1993.

Nigeria was also successful at the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2007 in Korea, beating Spain in the final in a penalty shootout.

For more information on the FIFA U-17 World Cup Nigeria 2009, please consult the official webpage of the competition on FIFA.com: www.fifa.com/nigeria2009.