NSFA Conducts 2024 Governor's Cup Draws, Set October 31 For Kick-off

NSFA Conducts 2024 Governor's Cup Draws, Set October 31 For Kick-off

Ibrahim Lateef

The Niger State Football Association (NSFA) has conducted the draws for the 2024 Niger State Governor's Cup football competition, known as "Lapai 2024," and has set October 31 as the official kick-off date for the tournament, reports BSNSports.com.ng.

Dr Nuhu Garba Ngaski, the permanent secretary of the state Ministry of Youths and Sports Development, opened the draws at Layali Hotel, Lapai.

He emphasized the unifying force of football and its ability to bring people together, inspire teamwork, and promote healthy competition.

The event is a significant step in promoting youth sports and showcasing the talent within the communities.

Dr. Garba Ngaski highlighted the values of peace, togetherness, teamwork, and team spirit, and expressed optimism about seeing these values exhibited during the tournament.

He thanked the state FA and other football stakeholders for their commitment to sports development and looked forward to exciting matches, remarkable displays of talent, and the spirit of sportsmanship.

Comrade Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, the NSFA Chairman, mentioned that this year's edition is the 44th Governor's Cup and the second under the administration of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.

He acknowledged the sponsorship of the championship by the Niger State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

The tournament will kick off on October 31, and all 25 local government areas are expected to participate. Comrade Yusuf Fresh emphasized the importance of playing by the rules and embracing the spirit of sportsmanship.

The Chairman of Lapai Local Government Council, Hon. Mohammed Musa Kiriko, expressed gratitude for Lapai being granted the hosting rights.

He assured that Lapai is working towards a successful hosting, including upgrading the five football pitches to be used during the championship.

The opening ceremony match of the 2024 edition will feature the host local government, Lapai, and Chanchaga. Bida Local Government, the defending champion from the last edition, will not participate in the opening match.

The event also included interpretations of the tournament rules, framework, governance structure, and regulations, as well as explanations of the laws of the game.

The draws were conducted by the first vice chairman of NSFA, Yabagi Alhaji Baba.