New Football Tournament to Kick Off in Lagos State in 2024
-Maiden cup to begin in Ikorodu
By Nurudeen Adebayo
Prince Oluwatoyin Gafaar Bolowotan, the Director-General (DG) of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), has unveiled plans to initiate a groundbreaking football tournament in 2024 across the state.
The tournament, scheduled for October next year, is set to commence in Ikorodu and will bear the name of the Ayangbure of Ikorodu.
The revelation unfolded during a discussion with football stakeholders in Ikorodu as part of the 15th edition of the Gafaar Bolowotan Gold Cup, hosted at the Police Barracks Playing Ground on Sunday. Bolowotan, recognized with an award by the Association of Football Club Owners (AFCO), Ikorodu branch, shared insights into the upcoming football extravaganza.
“I am still a member of the association, and I will soon have a new female football team in Ikorodu,” Bolowotan affirmed, emphasizing the need for financial commitment from members.
He addressed the historical context, stating, “We used to have football club owners in Ikorodu, but it collapsed due to misappropriation of funds, and that is what the new body will have to work seriously on if we are not to repeat the same thing.”
Moreover, Bolowotan encouraged club owners to contribute to the sport’s development, recognizing the efforts of those who have been managing clubs in Ikorodu.
He highlighted an annual assignment dubbed the “Oba’s Cup,” set to debut in October, where the club owners’ association would be expected to make contributions.
The DG Sports also provided an update on stadium constructions across the state, assuring completion by January 2024.
“By January, we are going to complete the Igbogbo stadium and others across the state,” he stated.
Bolowotan outlined a vision for the stadiums, revealing plans for an October football tournament and the commissioning of all five stadiums by February.
“The plan is to have all the five stadiums – Igbogbo, Agege, Ifako Ijaiye, Teslim Balogun in Surulere, and Gbagada, commissioned by February,” Bolowotan declared.
He emphasized the significance of these facilities and outlined specific deadlines for the completion of individual stadiums, including measures to ensure controlled access and enhance the overall sporting experience.
