The founder of the Jagaban Cup and chairman of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Hadji L’ameed Gafar, has spoken extensively about the tournament’s future.
Speaking to Sports247 after the conclusion of the 2025 edition at Legacy Pitch, Surulere, Lagos.
He addressed a section of the press on the various aspects of the competition, after the conclusion of the 2025 edition which was won by SGFC Athletics from Kwara State on Thursday, 27 March 2025.
Here are excerpts from the interview:
A National Competition That Will Be Hosted In Lagos Every Year
“Yes, it should be. It is already a national tournament. We have had clubs from Oyo and Kwara States participate, with some even winning the competition. However, our esteemed president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, a great leader and remarkable individual, has deep ties to Lagos.
” This city is his foundation, and I believe everyone should come here. If the SSA suggests moving it elsewhere, we will discuss it, and I will present my reasons why it should remain in Lagos.”
“That being said, we will invite clubs from Abuja, Jos, Sokoto, Kano, Aba, Enugu, and other states. They will all come here.”
Retaining The Structure
“Currently, the tournament features eight teams, and we will not expand beyond that. However, this year, we may add four more teams to complete the lineup.”
On The Future of the competition
“To answer your question directly, we will continue bringing youth clubs from across Nigeria to Lagos for the Jagaban Cup. This tournament will remain here for the next 100 years. May God grant our leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, long life and good health.”
On Sustainability of the family
“Someone recently asked me, ‘Gafar, is this tournament sustainable?’ I answered, ‘Yes, it is. I have the financial capacity to sustain it.’ With the right resources, football will thrive.”
Enduring Legacy
“This competition will endure for the next century, and future generations will carry it forward. Over time, it will evolve, but its legacy will remain.”
“The founders of Real Madrid and Manchester United are long gone, yet their clubs continue to flourish, hosting tournaments and staying strong. The Jagaban Cup will follow the same path—it will be here forever,” Hadji L’ameed Gafar affirmed.
Now in its third year, the Jagaban Cup has become a crucial platform for young talents to showcase their abilities on an international level.
European scouts regularly attend the tournament, identifying promising players and connecting them with clubs abroad for better opportunities.
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