The Director-General, Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), Mr.Lekan Fatodu has stated that Football is a powerful tool in engaging young people, directing their energy and focus into something more positive.
Speaking at the kickoff of the 4th edition of the Afinni Unity Cup 2025, tagged “The Price before the Price,” held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Fatodu lauded the community development initiative. He disclosed that sports are pivotal in changing the wrong ideology of the Youth and preventing societal ills.
“This is going back to the community, it brings peace within and helps people to pursue more decent lifestyles, as sports has actually gone beyond a hobby. Sports are now a global currency, and we need to tap into it, he added..
Lagos State House Assembly Member, Honourable Sulaimon Olarenwaju Afinni, the Organiser of the event, stated that the competition started in a smaller stadium within Lagos Island as a seven-a-side Game before being expanded to an 11-a-side game.
He noted that the competition serves as a platform for local talents to be seen, international agents offering opportunities for the Youth to pursue a career in sports, and promote talented ones amongst them to the next level.
16 Teams representing various communities across Lagos Island are participating in the Football tournament facilitated by the Lawmaker who is representing the Lagos Island Constituency.
Defending champions, Ricca/Odunfa, were bundled out of the Afinni Unity Cup after losing on penalties against Pike/Forsythe in the opening match of the 2025 edition.
In other results, Ita Faji/Evans defeated Tinubu/Luther by three goals to nothing, Ebute Elefun/Sura recorded a 2-0 win over Anikantamo/Swamp, and Massey/Branco thrashed Phase III & IV by four goals to nil.
The tournament continues on Tuesday with more matches in the round of 16. The Afinni Unity Cup will climax with the grand finale on Sunday, November 9.
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