Alhaji Gafar Olawale Liameed, founder of 36 Lions FC has emerged as the distinguished recipient of the Family United By Sports (FUBS) Personality of the Year 2023.
This coveted award places him alongside a prestigious lineup of past winners, including Dapo (2018), Shehu (2019), Abba Yola (2020), Chris (2021), and Igali (2022).
The CEO/Chairman of 36 Lion FC of Lagos, affectionately known as ‘Haj Gaffar,’ has etched his name in the annals of Nigerian football through decades of unwavering passion and commitment.
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Hajji Gafar’s football odyssey is a captivating tale of passion, dedication, and transformative impact.
Born and raised in Nigeria, he embarked on a journey to the United States, where he not only pursued academic endeavours but also established a significant presence in American football.
As a highly valued member of the Illinois State Soccer Association, Chicago, USA since 2005, Hajji Gaffar honed his skills and charisma, leaving an indelible mark.
In 2001, displaying immense zeal and commitment, Hajji Gafar initiated a philanthropic mission that set the stage for his impactful football legacy.
Sponsoring a team from Surulere Local Government for a three-year tour of the USA, he began touching the lives of less privileged youngsters in Lagos State.
This benevolent gesture laid the foundation for his return to Nigeria in 2004 to assume the direct management of his beloved club, 36 Lion FC, officially inaugurated in 2000.
Hajji Gafar’s influence in football extends far beyond the pitch. His multi-faceted involvement includes followership, support, promotions, administration, sponsorship, coaching, and scouting.
Over 30 years of unwavering commitment have seen him impact grassroots efforts, discover talents, contribute to youth development, and provide player education.
Notable international stars he discovered, groomed, and promoted include Sodiq Popoola, Junior Ajayi, Peter Olayinka, Imoh Ezekiel, Yira Sor, Tijani Mohammed, Kehinde Ibrahim, and more.
Hajji Gafar’s leadership prowess shines through various administrative roles. A member of the Lagos State Football Association (2010-2019), he also served on the technical committee during the same period.
His chairmanship of the Lagos State chapter of the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (2017-2020) and his role in the Badagry All Stars football team underline his commitment to grassroots development.
Beyond the field of play, Hajji Gafar stands as a symbol of philanthropy. As a sponsor of the annual Oba Akran Football Tournament, convener of the Jagaban Cup, and promoter of the annual Lagos Supremacy Cup, he ensures that football serves as a vehicle for positive community engagement.
Hajji Gafar is not just an administrator; he is a renowned youth developer, talent educator, and club financier.
His comprehensive approach involves objective analysis, stylistic essentials, and comparative induction, delivering comprehensive reports on the overall quality of young players.
His influence extends to educative, counselling, guidance, and coaching aspects of youth development.
Fittingly and most importantly, Hajji Gafar currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association and heads the technical committee.
His extensive background in coaching, training, and refereeing adds a layer of depth to his contributions to the beautiful game.
In summarizing the narrative of Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed, it is evident that he has become an icon of many feathers in the Game of the Century.
His curriculum vitae boasts successful management of over 1,000 players, effective relations with revered coaches, and a seat among the best administrators in the game.
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