Lagos November 18, 2011: Nigeria’s fastest growing telecommunications company, Etisalat, has said that it will continue to explore new ways for Nigerians to enjoy football, given the passion that the sport is followed in the country. This statement was made at a Novelty Match to celebrate the partnership between Etisalat and FC Barcelona.

According to Enitan Denloye, Director Brands and Communications Etisalat Nigeria, the firm is committed to creating maximum opportunities to connect the local football talent to the world’s finest in order to help them achieve their highest potential.

“Our partnership with FC Barcelona is part of our company's corporate philosophy. In just three years of operation in Nigeria, we have seen ourselves as part of the people and environment in which we operate by identifying positively with their aspirations economically, socially and culturally. Through this unique partnership, Etisalat is bringing football action to its 135 million customers in different countries, while providing an extended worldwide fan base to FC Barcelona in relatively newer territories.” Enitan said.

He added that under the partnership with FC Barcelona, Etisalat is accelerating its support to develop and promote football talent through innovative promotions and initiatives with the club.

“It is common knowledge that football is a major past-time in Nigeria and across Africa. People from all walks of life enjoy this sport and other activities associated with it. By partnering with FC Barcelona, we are able to allow our customers and Nigerians especially, to extend their support to the world's most famous football team”. The FCB partnership creates a suitable platform to connect with consumers across segments that are passionate about international football. Etisalat will continue to support the development of sports in Nigeria and provide platforms such as this to key into the passion of Nigerians. We are committed to opportunities that motivate sports lovers and people” He said.

The FCB are the current Spanish and European football champions, and have won the most domestic trophies in Spanish football, having won 21 La Liga, 25 Copa del Rey, 10 Supercopa de España, 3 Copa Eva Duarte and 2 Copa de la Liga trophies, as well as being the record holder for the latter four competitions. This great club is also the only European club to have played continental football every season since 1955, and one of the only three clubs to have never been relegated from La Liga.