Lapai and Lavun local governments have emerged as the finalists of this year’s Niger State Governor’s Cup Football Competition, tagged “Lapai 2024.”
In the first semi-final match held at Mohammadu Kobo Secondary School Field 1 in Lapai, the Lapai local government team triumphed over Suleja LG with a 2-1 victory. Meanwhile, Lavun LG secured their spot in the finals by defeating Kontagora LG 4-3 in a penalty shootout, following a goalless draw in regulation time at Field 2 of the same venue.
This year’s final will be an all Zone A affair, as both finalists hail from the Niger South senatorial district, known as Zone A. The match will also feature two local governments represented by prominent political figures: Hon. Hamidu Mu’azu Jantabo, the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, from Lapai LG, and Hon. Abdullahi Usman Gbatamangi, the Chief of Staff, from Lavun LG.
Mallam Yabagi A. Baba, Chairman of the Organizing and Disciplinary Committee of the Niger State Football Association (NSFA), praised the sportsmanship displayed by all participants throughout the tournament. He encouraged the teams competing in the third-place match and the final to maintain their high standards of play.
Mallam Yabagi, who also serves as the first vice chairman of NSFA, noted that the Lapai 2024 Governor’s Cup has exceeded expectations, with all 25 local government teams delivering surprising performances. He mentioned that NSFA is awaiting approval from the Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, for the final match date, which will be communicated to all stakeholders.
He also expressed gratitude to the Lapai Emirate, the local government council, and the local organizing committee, led by Alhaji Umar Makun Lapai, for their support and hospitality, which have contributed to the tournament’s success.