Former Super Eagles’ goalkeeper and captain, Peter ‘The Rock’ Rufai, has thrown his weight behind the ‘rebirth’ and revival of Lagos State Principal’s Cup.
Rufai, who is still fondly called ‘Dodo Mayana’ by his teeming fans, made this known during the official unveiling of the new look competition on Tuesday.
The event, which was graced by former footballers, top administrators, grassroots players, students, journalists, as well as teachers from public and private schools across Lagos State, was used to usher in a new lease of life for the once glamorous competition.
This much was revealed by the chairman of Principal’s Cup Committee (PCC), Honourable Razaq Ajala, who further disclosed that the competition will feature junior and senior categories for male and female players in both private and public secondary schools.
Ajala, who is also the chairman of Ojuwoye Local Council Development Authority, added that forms are already available to all comers at various education district headquarters across Lagos State, but only eight private schools and 24 public ones will qualify for the competition’s main draw.
Also speaking at the event, which took place at a private fitness centre off Allen Avenue in Ikeja, a member of the screening committee, Mr Monday Kanu stressed that elaborate steps have already been taken to prevent unqualified students (often known as mercenaries) from taking part in the competition, whose first round matches will take place across 20 different venues.
He also assured that adequate security and health facilities will be present at each venue, while all matches will be streamed live on the internet and elaborate social media activities will follow the competition from beginning to end.
On his part, Rufai disclosed that a new ‘white card’ scheme will be introduced to provide a strong database and reference point for the revived competition.
Rufai, who is also the PCC’s vice-chairman/spokesman, enthused: “This is an opportunity for us former players and lovers of secondary school football to put something back into the game.
“The introduction of white card by Lagos State Football Association will bring a new world of joy and progress to Nigerian football in general.
“It will provide opportunities for cheerleaders, coaches, referees and students to grow. I’m also personally looking forward to the emergence of talented goalkeepers from this competition.”
Other speakers at the event included the chairman of Lagos State Sports Commission, Honourable Toyin Gafar Bolowotan; chairman of Lagos State Football Association, Mr Fouad Oki; chairman First Generation Private Schools, Mr Adebambo Olarewaju; and the director sports of Education District 3, Mr Aamso Adekoya.
