The Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Hajji Gafar Liameed, along with Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, ACG HK Ejibunu, Dr. Chioma Amajoh (Mama Malaria), Pst. Dr. Victoria Ben Shimfe, and others, were honored on Saturday, June 21, 2025, with the National Development Merit Award and inducted into the National Development Hall of Fame at the National Merit Award Secretariat, Merit House, Maitama, Abuja.
This prestigious event, organized by Elation Magazine, Royal Magation, and Elation Communication Ltd, acknowledged individuals for their exceptional leadership and lasting contributions to national progress through sports, public service, and health advocacy.
Other notable awardees included Chief Onyekachukwu Ogbu, Hon. Dr. Oluwasegun Musa, Captain Raymond Bitanis, Dr. Rafiu Oladipo, and Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Maruwa (Rtd.), among others, for their significant efforts in governance, youth development, and nation-building.
Hajji Gafar expressed his sincere gratitude to 36 Lion FC/36 Lion Investment, Ajara All Stars International, Badagry fans, the Ikeja/Agege fans, the Great Islanders, the entire Surulere supporters, the LSFA board and members, and his fellow FA Chairmen from Kwara, Kogi, and Gombe States for their unwavering support and confidence in his leadership.
In a special statement, Hajji Gafar acknowledged the convener and founder of the award, veteran journalist Mr. Darlington Umoru, publisher of Royal International Magazine, for his vision and commitment to recognizing excellence in national development.
He praised Mr. Umoru for establishing a platform that honors and celebrates individuals who are influencing the future of Nigeria through their service and impact.
The event gathered dignitaries from various sectors and reinforced the national significance of honoring leadership, service, and commitment to societal advancement.