IN line with its aim of adding glamour to the final of this year's Federation Cup, the Lagos State Government is working to ensure that the stadium is filled to capacity during the competition with a mixture of sports and entertainment.This became necessary following the concern of Governor Babatunde Fashola over the low turnout of fans during previous finals of the oldest tournament in the country.Fashola, who also donated a new silver trophy to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), believes that players in the country should always look forward to participating in the championship, which has churned out great players for the country.However, plans are in top gear to stage a befitting grand finale on August 26 at the Teslim Balogun Stadium where top artistes are expected to thrill fans during the finale. Five thousand students in uniform are expected to watch the final match free of charge while tickets would be given to fans through a planned radio programme.For Fashola, the competition boasts a rich history not only in Nigeria but also around the world, having produced many legends.Listing some of the great players as Muyiwa Oshode, Ismaila Mabo, Haruna Ilerika of blessed memory and the expressive Kenneth Olayombo, Fashola said: 'With a definite venue, players and teams generally will look forward to a destination and a dream.'That adds to the glamour of the competition. It is our hope that this new trophy will rekindle great competition and re-awaken Nigerians' interest in the Federation Cup.'NFF boss, Aminu Maigari, has also assured that the final would not leave Lagos, stating: 'I want to thank the governor for his unalloyed support to the NFF and, Lagos being the hub of football in Nigeria, I want to assure you that the Federation Cup will not leave Lagos.'This year's final holding on August 26 will be the most colourful in the history of the championship.
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