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The Emir of Lapai, Engr. Umaru Bago Tafida II, has commended the Chairman of the Niger State Football Association (NSFA), Comrade Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, for awarding the hosting rights of the 2024 Niger State Governor’s Cup to Lapai Local Government Area.
The Emir expressed his gratitude on Thursday when he received the NSFA Chairman and his team at his palace in Lapai. He acknowledged the numerous contributions of the NSFA Chairman towards the development of football in Lapai.
Highlighting the significance of this event, the Emir noted that since the inception of the championship over 40 years ago, Lapai Local Government has never had the opportunity to host the tournament. He emphasised that this honour bestowed by the state FA would be cherished by the people of Lapai for years to come.
“It is a great joy for us in the Lapai Emirate to host the prestigious Niger State Governor’s Cup. We assure you of our full support for the success of the tournament,” the Emir stated, offering prayers for the event’s success.
Earlier, Comrade Ahmed Yusuf Fresh informed the Emir that they were in Lapai for the draws of the 2024 edition of the Governor’s Cup. He explained that it is a tradition for the football family in the state to pay homage to traditional leaders to seek their blessings.
Comrade Yusuf Fresh, who has been a frequent visitor to the palace, was previously conferred with the title of Baturen Kwallon Lapai by the Emir. He expressed his appreciation for the Emir’s continued support and prayers for him and his team.
Reflecting on the previous year’s semi-final matches held in Lapai, Comrade Yusuf Fresh attributed the decision to grant Lapai the hosting rights to the warm hospitality received from the people of Lapai.
The NSFA Chairman was accompanied to the Emir’s palace by board members of the NSFA and other football stakeholders in the state.
The Niger State Ministry of Lands and Survey, in collaboration with the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Minna, celebrated the 2024 World Habitat Day with an interactive session involving key stakeholders and partners.
During the event at the Niger State Geographic Information System (NIGIS) conference hall, the Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Hon. Maurice Bello Magaji, highlighted that the United Nations General Assembly designated the first Monday of October as World Habitat Day in December 1985. This day serves to reflect on human settlements and the basic right to adequate shelter, reminding the world of its collective responsibility for the future of human habitats.
This year's theme, "Engaging Youth to Create a Better Urban Future," focusses on addressing the challenges and opportunities of rapid urbanisation by involving youths in shaping sustainable cities and communities. Commissioner Magaji emphasised the importance of planning alongside youths, stating that their involvement ensures better appreciation, cooperation, and engagement in urban planning initiatives.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youths and Sports Development, Dr. Nuhu Garba Ngaski, praised the United Nations for this year's theme, noting that youths are the social drivers of sustainable and environmentally friendly cities. He stressed the need for recognition and engagement of youths to achieve these goals.
Dr. Abdul Hussaini, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands and Survey and Coordinator of RCE Minna, shared insights on past collaborations with youths in Minna and the importance of their participation in the interactive session. He mentioned the recent UN General Assembly resolution, "Pact for the Future," and the "Africa Agenda 2063," highlighting the necessity of focused and peaceful youth involvement for their realisation.
Participants at the event included officials from New Niger, the Niger State Urban Development Board (NUDB), NIGIS, RCE Minna Youth Wing, and some repentant thugs, among others, who contributed valuable insights during the interactive session.
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