In a significant development within Nigerian football, the Chairman of the Technical Committee of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Liameed Gafar, has expressed unwavering support for Nigerian National League (NNL) teams ahead of the upcoming 2023/2024 season.
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Gafar, who also serves as the Vice Chairman of the LSFA, has pledged the association’s backing for live streaming of matches and branding of the prestigious Mobolaji Johnson Arena Stadium.
This announcement comes on the heels of a recent circular issued by the LSFA board, led by Fuad Oke, which stated that NNL teams in the state would not be permitted to live-stream their matches or brand the venue during their games, starting from the season’s kickoff on October 28.
However, Gafar emphasized that this decision would be subject to review, underlining the critical role that live streaming plays in the sustainability of football clubs.
Gafar stressed, “The only thing that will give you any kind of revenue, any kind of benefit is if you brand your stadium and if you stream your game live.” He recounted the success story of a player from Ikorodu City who secured a professional contract in Europe thanks to live streaming.
This player was scouted and signed, marking a significant breakthrough in his career, and illustrating the pivotal role live streaming can play in player exposure and transfer opportunities.
Moreover, Gafar reiterated the unwavering commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwolu to youth empowerment through sports. He disclosed that the governor has provided state-of-the-art facilities for sporting events, including arenas and pitches, with minimal costs involved.
Gafar hinted that the governor’s commitment to youth development might even extend to waiving cleaning fees in the near future.
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Representatives of the six NNL teams present at the meeting commended the LSFA’s technical committee for their support and called for a reconsideration of the decision to ban branding and live streaming during matches.
As the 2023/2024 NNL season approaches, these developments signify a pivotal moment in the Lagos State football landscape, highlighting the importance of digital exposure and community support for the growth of football clubs.
