In a groundbreaking development for football in Nigeria, the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) successfully secured approval for its proposed budget of ₦3,614,749,550 during its Annual General Assembly (AGA) held on Saturday at the Molade Okoya Sports Hall in Teslim Balogun Stadium. This monumental budget will support a range of activities and programs for the upcoming 2024/2025 season, marking a significant milestone in the history of state football associations in Nigeria.
Engaging the Football Community
The approved budget will facilitate the organization of over 19 football programs, aimed at fully engaging more than 10,000 active male and female footballers and officials across the state. These initiatives are designed not only to promote football but also to foster a thriving business environment and encourage peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups within Lagos State.
Akeem Rabiu-Okikioposu, the LSFA General Secretary, expressed his satisfaction with the Congress’s decision, emphasizing the positive impact this budget will have on the local football ecosystem. “This approval represents a significant investment in the future of football in Lagos,” he stated.
Acknowledgment of Leadership
The historical budget approval reflects the hard work and dedication of the LSFA board, led by Hajji Gafar Liameed, whose leadership has been pivotal in driving this initiative forward. During the assembly, Liameed acknowledged the unwavering support of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, thanking him for his commitment to the growth of football in Lagos. He also called on well-placed individuals and corporate organizations to join in supporting the LSFA’s vision for a sustainable and profitable football ecosystem.
Inclusion of New Teams
In a further positive development, the assembly formally admitted Ikorodu City FC and Smart City FC into the Congress. Both teams will represent Lagos in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and Nigeria National League (NNL), respectively, signaling a commitment to strengthening the state’s football representation at national levels.
A Gathering of Football Luminaries
The AGA was attended by numerous respected figures in the football community, including Damilare Orimoloye, SSA to the Executive Governor of Lagos State, and Adeboye Anthony, SSA Grassroots to the Hon. Minister of Sports Development. Former LSFA Chairman Engr. Waidi Akanni, Godwin Enakhena, Chairman of Sporting Lagos FC, and Pa. Kwame Arthur were also present, contributing their insights and expertise to the discussions.
Looking Ahead
With this historic budget approval, the Lagos State Football Association is poised to make significant strides in developing football in the region. The ambitious plans for the season promise to enhance the sporting landscape, providing opportunities for athletes and promoting football as a vehicle for unity and economic growth in Lagos State. As the football community eagerly anticipates the upcoming season, the LSFA’s initiatives are sure to inspire a new generation of talent and foster a deeper love for the game.
