The Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Alhaji Liameed Gafar, has described Lagos as the undisputed “home of football” in Nigeria following the successful hosting of the 2025 President Federation Cup finals at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.
Speaking to Sports247 after the double-header finale on Saturday — where Rivers Angels lifted the women’s trophy and Kwara United clinched the men’s title — Gafar commended the Lagos State Government and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for their unwavering support.
“I am very impressed by the performance of the teams in the final,” Gafar said. “I want to commend the government, especially Mr. Governor, who is the number one citizen and chief security officer of the state. Without their support, the FA would not have been able to achieve this.”
Gafar noted that meticulous planning went into organizing the final, which drew thousands of fans to the iconic stadium.
“This is a stadium with a capacity of 5,800, and we made sure to have over 200 security personnel on ground. Everything went smoothly, and we made history together,” he added.
On Lagos’ position in Nigerian football, Gafar reaffirmed the state’s legacy and current leadership.
“Lagos has always been the home of football. With a population of over 26 million and more than 30,000 active young footballers, the talent pool here is unmatched. Accra may be trying, but they are still learning from us,” he stated confidently.
Looking ahead, the LSFA chairman highlighted the extensive football ecosystem operating under the association and plans to expand infrastructure with continued government support.
“We have over 200 teams affiliated with the LSFA, which means more than 15 matches are played across local governments every weekend. We are a work in progress, and with the Governor’s support, we are optimistic about getting more infrastructure and facilities in place.”
The 2025 President Federation Cup finals have been widely praised for their organization, vibrant fan turnout, and the symbolic return of Lagos to center stage in Nigerian football.
SOURCE: SPORTS247