In a milestone celebration marking the 23rd anniversary, end of year, and U16 graduation event of 36 Lions FC, Chairman Alhaji Gafar Olawale Liameed shared his insights on the current state of football in Lagos, emphasizing collective responsibility for improvement.
The occasion witnessed intense U16 graduation matches, a thrilling display between diaspora and home-based lions, and commendation for Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu’s ambitious stadium initiative.
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Speaking to Sports247 at the event, Chairman Alhaji Gafar Olawale Liameed acknowledged the existing challenges in the football landscape of Lagos.
He stated, “When you say look at football in Lagos, 2023, I would say we are not there yet. Are we going to get there? Yes. Should we have gotten there? Yes.”
Gafar expressed accountability, describing the collective effort to address issues, saying, “It’s my fault. It’s our fault. It’s all of us. But it’s going to be better, and we will improve it.
We are talking to ourselves. We are brainstorming. We dialogue now and then. Sometimes the dialogue becomes very intense. It becomes a confrontation.”
He emphasized the importance of speaking the truth, saying, “My truth is not your truth. Their truth is not our own truth. But there’s only one truth, the truth of football. I hope and I pray we all speak that truth.”
Chairman Gafar expressed optimism about the future of football in Lagos, particularly in light of Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu’s announcement.
He stated, “I feel good about it. And if you can see, adjacent to the National Stadium, the construction of the Teslim Balogun stadium is ongoing, ongoing at the speed of light.”
He praised the Governor’s integrity, saying, “So that tells you that our Governor, His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu, is doing a great job.
He said five stadiums are going to be delivered. I believe him. I’ve never caught him with a lie.” Gafar expressed his joy and belief in the Governor’s commitment to the initiative.*
The U16 graduation matches featured intense competitions among the feeder teams of 36 Lions FC.
Badagry Lions secured a 1-0 victory against Ojota Lions in the first match, while Iwaya Lions triumphed with a 2-0 win against Orile Lions in the second.
The final game saw Iwaya Lions emerging as winners with a 1-0 victory over Badagry Lions.
Adding an international flair to the celebration, a display match between diaspora lions and home-based lions resulted in a thrilling 2-2 draw. The match showcased the diverse talent within the 36 Lions FC community.
The 23rd-anniversary event concluded with the presentation of awards to recognize outstanding individuals.
The overall best goalkeeper, goal scorer, and Diaspora Lion of the Year were honoured, highlighting excellence within the 36 Lions FC community.
