The Director General of the Federation of Youth Soccer Clubs (FEYSOC), Niger State chapter, Umar Batako Lapai, has commended the state government and the state football association for their sponsorship and organisation of the 2024 edition of the Governor’s Cup Football Competition.
During an interview with sports journalists covering the ongoing competition in Lapai Local Government Area, Umar Batako praised the commitment of the current administration under Governor Mohammed Umar Bago. He highlighted the administration’s unprecedented dedication to youth development through sports, particularly football.
He noted that the consecutive sponsorship of the Governor’s Cup by the current administration demonstrates its youth-friendly policies and deserves the support of all youths in the state. He also lauded the Niger State Football Association (NSFA) under the leadership of Comrade Ahmed Yusuf Fresh for the high-quality organisation of the Lapai 2024 Governor’s Cup, calling it the best-organised edition in the competition’s history.
“I can confidently say that Lapai 2024 is the best Governor’s Cup organised so far in the state. This is evident from the participation of all 25 local governments, the support of the state government, and the attendance of stakeholders such as council chairmen, state assembly members, and commissioners,” he explained.
Umar Batako, who is also the founder of Lapai Football Academy and the secretary of the local organising committee, revealed that many hidden talents have been discovered during the ongoing Governor’s Cup, which is a significant boost for football development in the state. He added that fostering unity among youths is another key aim of the tournament.
He expressed happiness over the gradual return of the annual football fiesta’s glamour and believed that the next edition would be even more spectacular.
Meanwhile, the Governor’s Cup has reached the quarterfinal stage, with eight teams securing their spots. The quarterfinal matches are scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday. Lavun LG will face Mariga LG in the first match, followed by Kontagora vs. Rijau LGs, Gbako vs. host Lapai LG, and Katcha vs. Suleja LGs to wrap up the quarterfinals.