Lagos, Nigeria
By Busari Akeem
Kwara United made history on Saturday evening at the iconic Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, by lifting their first-ever Federation Cup title in 49 years. The Ilorin-based side edged out Abakaliki FC 4-3 on penalties in a fiercely contested final of the 2025 President Federation Cup.
The final, which ended goalless after regulation time, showcased top-tier football drama as the Afonja Warriors, led by Coach Tunde Sanni, finally overcame the Cinderella run of Abakaliki FC—the tournament’s surprise package—through a tense penalty shootout. The victory also handed Kwara United a coveted continental ticket.
The event drew a capacity crowd to the Mobolaji Johnson Arena and earned high praise from football pundits and stakeholders, who lauded the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and tournament partners GTI/TNFF for their seamless organization of Nigeria’s oldest national football competition.
Speaking after the match, LSFA Chairman, Hajji Gafar Liameed, expressed gratitude to the NFF, GTI/TNFF, and particularly the Lagos State Government for their unwavering support in hosting the tournament for a second consecutive year.
“We are deeply thankful to His Excellency, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, for his unwavering support and encouragement. Hosting this prestigious championship again is a testament to Lagos State’s commitment to youth empowerment through football,” Liameed said.
He emphasized the FA’s commitment to football development across the state:
“This board remains focused on the growth of the game, aligned with the state government’s agenda to uplift and empower our youth through sports.”
Stakeholders across the Nigerian football landscape gave special commendation to the LSFA board for their passion, professionalism, and consistency in hosting back-to-back editions of the President Federation Cup, further solidifying Lagos as a premier destination for major football events.(www.krestnews.com).