Hajji Gafar Liameed, the Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, came to Uyo on a national assignment to support the Super Eagles of Nigeria as they faced Libya in a crucial AFCON qualifier.
However, Liameed’s unrelenting passion for football and nurturing young talent couldn’t let him rest. Known for his dedication to discovering the next generation of football stars, he seized the opportunity to scout for fresh talent while in the city.
Early in the morning, long before the scheduled match, Liameed made his way to Uyo’s local football fields, where over 100 aspiring players were engaged in friendly matches.
His presence injected excitement into the games, as these young players knew they had a chance to impress a man who has consistently championed grassroots football in Nigeria.
“Football talent in Nigeria is abundant, but without the right guidance and opportunities, many of these young players go unnoticed.” – Hajji Gafar Liameed
Throughout the day, Liameed devoted his time to watching four different matches. Despite his busy schedule, he remained focused, paying close attention to the skills, determination, and raw potential of the players on display. After hours of observation, he identified several promising talents who stood out from the rest.
Speaking on the experience, Liameed expressed his commitment to fostering these budding footballers’ growth. “Football talent in Nigeria is abundant, but without the right guidance and opportunities, many of these young players go unnoticed. My mission is to find them early, guide them, and give them a platform to shine,” he said.
He has already invited some of the standout players to Lagos, where he plans to further develop their skills and help them realize their potential. “The journey doesn’t end here. These players have shown promise, and I am committed to investing in them. Lagos is ready to nurture the next generation of Nigerian football stars,” Liameed added.
His passion and eye for talent continue to be a driving force in Nigeria’s football landscape, with many hopeful that his efforts will help produce future stars for the Super Eagles.
