The Ogun State Government has thrown its weight behind the successful hosting of the 2025 Veterans Cup Zonal Qualifier, reaffirming its commitment to sports development and inclusive engagement in the state.
This assurance was given by the State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the All Stars Football Association to his office in Abeokuta.
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Scheduled to hold from July 25 to 26 at the Muda Lawal Stadium, Abeokuta, the South West zonal qualifier will produce the region’s sole representative for the national finals of the Veterans Cup — an annual competition aimed at fostering camaraderie and sustained involvement in football among retired and veteran players.
While welcoming the delegation led by the association’s president, Alhaji Salman Akinbo, Hon. Isiaka commended the Abeokuta All Stars Football Association for its consistency in promoting football development at the grassroots, especially among veteran players who continue to serve as role models within the community.
“The Ogun State Government recognises the contributions of veteran footballers to the growth of the game and society. We are proud to support this tournament, which aligns with our vision of inclusive sports development,” the commissioner said.
Alhaji Akinbo, in his remarks, congratulated the commissioner for the successful hosting of the 2024 Gateway Games, noting it as a testament to the government’s growing commitment to sports. He also used the visit to brief the commissioner on the association’s readiness to deliver a hitch-free zonal event, while seeking logistical and administrative support from the ministry.
The eventual winner of the Abeokuta-hosted qualifier will join counterparts from other regions and the host state, Lagos, for the final phase of the competition later in the year.
The Veterans Cup continues to gain traction as a platform for uniting retired footballers, nurturing community-based sports activities, and promoting active lifestyles post-retirement.
