All eyes will be on the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos this Saturday as the 2024 President Federation Cup reaches its grand finale, with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu expected to serve as the Special Guest of Honour.
The event promises to be a colourful celebration of Nigerian football, taking place along the iconic Lagos Waterfront. Also confirmed to attend is Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, while their counterparts from Rivers, Ebonyi, and Nasarawa States may also be present or send high-level representatives.
The women’s final will see defending champions Rivers Angels take on Nasarawa Amazons, while the men’s final will pit Kwara United against this year’s surprise package, Abakaliki FC of Ebonyi State.
This marks a historic occasion for Ebonyi State, which was created in 1996, as it is the first time a team from the state has reached the final of Nigeria’s national cup competition. For Kwara United, the wait has been even longer—49 years since a club from the state made it to the final. In 1976, Alyufsalam Rocks of Ilorin stunned many by reaching the final, only to lose 2-0 to Enugu Rangers in what was then known as the Challenge Cup.
Abakaliki FC’s journey to the final has been nothing short of extraordinary. The Ebonyi club, backed by former NFF Vice President and two-term senator Joseph Obinna Ogba, have consistently defied the odds. Their impressive run has seen them knock out NPFL sides Katsina United (on penalties), two-time African champions Enyimba (2-0), Nasarawa United (on penalties), and Ikorodu City (again on penalties), having earlier dispatched Yobe Desert Stars in the Round of 64.
Kwara United, nicknamed the Afonja Warriors, will be wary of their giant-killing opponents. The Ilorin-based team had earlier eliminated another Ebonyi team, Cynosure FC, in the Round of 64, but will need to be fully focused against Abakaliki FC when the whistle blows on Saturday.
Led by coach Tunde Sanni, Kwara United’s impressive run to the final has rallied strong support from across the state, including Governor Abdulrazaq and the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, who offered the team a royal send-off.
“I was once an official of Shooting Stars and the Nigeria Football Federation. I know what is at stake in a crucial match like this. Prepare well, remain focused and stay united. We will continue to pray for your success,” the Emir told the players.
With passion running high and history on the line for both clubs, the 2024 President Federation Cup final promises an unforgettable day for Nigerian football fans.
