Danladi Meets Football Organising Committee Ahead of SSG Magaji's 53rd Birthday Tournament Finale
Justice Commissioner says grassroots football competition reflects government's commitment to youth development and talent discovery.
By Suleiman Abubakar Rimi Uku
The Nasarawa State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Isaac Danladi, has met with members of the Organising Committee of the Matawalle Empowerment and Development Foundation Maiden Grassroots Football Tournament as preparations intensify for the grand finale of the competition organised to mark the 53rd birthday anniversary of the Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government (SSG), Labaran Shuaibu Magaji (SAN).
Speaking during the meeting held at his office in Lafia, Barr. Danladi, who serves as Patron of the tournament, said the engagement was aimed at fine-tuning arrangements for a successful conclusion of the football championship.
He disclosed that the grand finale, scheduled for July 1, 2026, is expected to attract Governor Abdullahi Sule, top government officials, political leaders and former Nigerian international footballers.
The Commissioner commended members of the organising committee for their dedication and commitment towards ensuring the success of the event, describing the tournament as a platform for youth engagement and talent discovery beyond the birthday celebration.
According to him, the competition reflects the long-standing commitment of the SSG to grassroots development and aligns with the Abdullahi Sule administration's vision of empowering young people through sports and other developmental initiatives.
Danladi described Labaran Shuaibu Magaji (SAN) as a distinguished son of Toto Local Government Area whose contributions to the growth of Nasarawa State and Nigeria have earned him admiration and recognition.
He noted that the State Government's decision to honour the SSG through the sporting event was in recognition of his outstanding service and contributions to public administration.
The football tournament commenced on June 12, 2026, at the Toto Central Pilot Primary School Football Pitch in Toto Local Government Area and will climax on July 1, 2026, with presentation of trophies, awards and prizes to outstanding teams, players and dignitaries.
Twelve teams are participating in the competition. Group A comprises Kofa FC, A.Y. Academy and Ogabo Chiji FC, while Group B features Ugya United, Panda Strikers (Umaisha) and Wanyanyo FC (Kuru).
Group C consists of Adadu United, Talba United and Elephant FC (Toto), while Group D includes Majaga FC, No Shaking FC and Tudu Uku FC.
The tournament is expected to further strengthen grassroots sports development and promote unity among youths across Toto Local Government Area.
