Gafar Liameed: Why the Ex-Internationals Cup Is More Than Just Football

Gafar Liameed has spent years building structures for Lagos football. But when he talks about the Ex-Internationals Cup, there is something in his voice that goes beyond administration and logistics. This one is personal.

The Lagos State Football Association Chairman has been the driving force behind this tournament since its inception, and the second edition — now backed by ₦40 million from the Bet9ja Foundation — represents everything he has been working towards: a competition that brings Nigeria’s football legends home, connects them to the communities that shaped them, and gives young players someone to look up to on their own doorstep.

Speaking on the sponsorship announcement, Liameed expressed deep appreciation for the support from Bet9ja Foundation and the personal interest shown by Honorable Soname. He noted that the partnership provides the opportunity to honour Nigeria’s legends and use their stories to inspire young talents throughout Lagos — which is precisely the vision he set out to build from day one.

He is equally proud of what the tournament represents beyond the scorelines. In his vision, every match is a development opportunity — a chance for grassroots structures to be reinforced, for local pitches to receive national attention, and for young players to perform in front of people who genuinely care about their future in football.

The ex-internationals have embraced this responsibility. Many of them describe their involvement as the most meaningful chapter of their post-playing careers. And under Liameed’s stewardship, the tournament has given them the platform to make that feeling real.

The 2026 edition is only partway through. But whatever the final result, Gafar Liameed has already built something that will outlast any scoreline.