Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Hajj Gafar, has explained the reasons behind the introduction of a new trophy identity for the Lagos FA Cup, describing it as a strategic move to preserve the competition’s legacy while aligning it with Lagos State’s cultural identity.
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According to Hajj Gafar, the Lagos FA Cup—established in 1918 as the Lagos War Memorial Cup and recognised as Nigeria’s oldest football competition—deserves a trophy that reflects both its historical importance and its modern relevance.
He noted that the new design was conceived to strengthen the competition’s prestige and inspire greater pride among participating teams.
The Lagos FA Chairman revealed that the new trophy was inspired by the iconic Eyo Masquerade, a powerful symbol of Lagos heritage, unity, and tradition.
He explained that incorporating the Eyo motif was a deliberate effort to project Lagos’ cultural identity through football, while giving the competition a distinctive and globally recognisable image.
Hajj Gafar also disclosed that two replicas of the trophy were produced to uphold tradition and institutional continuity.
A three-foot Giant Trophy will be permanently presented to the Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu, through the Office of the Director-General for Sports, while a 1.5-foot version will be awarded annually to the competition’s winners.
He emphasised that the initiative goes beyond aesthetics, stressing that it reflects the Lagos FA’s broader vision for innovation, cultural promotion, and sustainable football development in the state.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to innovation, culture, and football development in Lagos State,” Hajj Gafar stated.
