History was made on Saturday at the iconic Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, as Kwara United Football Club captured their first-ever President Federation Cup title, defeating giant-killers Abakaliki FC in a nail-biting penalty shootout.
The final of the male category of Nigeria’s oldest football championship was a thrilling contest of tactical wits that kept the packed stadium on edge.
After a goalless 90 minutes, the Afonja Warriors, under the leadership of Coach Tunde Sanni, triumphed 4-3 in the shootout to earn a long-awaited national title — their first in 49 years — and a continental ticket.
The real star behind the scenes, however, was the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA). Their coordination and resourcefulness, in partnership with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), ensured a flawless and festive football showcase that drew a full house to the MJA stadium.
Football stakeholders across the country praised the LSFA for its professionalism and execution, applauding the second consecutive successful hosting of the President Federation Cup in Lagos.
LSFA Chairman, Hajj Gafar Liameed, expressed deep gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support of youth development through football.
“We’re very grateful for the support and encouragement from His Excellency, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. This is the second consecutive hosting of this prestigious championship, and we’re thankful to the Lagos State Government, the Lagos State Sports Commission, and of course, the good people of this great state, for making it happen,” he said.
Liameed reaffirmed LSFA’s commitment to the long-term growth of football in Lagos, in alignment with the state government’s youth-focused development agenda.
The football community also showered praise on the LSFA board for their unyielding dedication to ensuring the event’s success — an effort that further solidifies Lagos’ reputation as Nigeria’s sports capital.
As the curtains close on this year’s edition, the echoes of success at Mobolaji Johnson Arena serve as a proud reminder of what is possible when planning, passion, and partnership come together on and off the pitch.
