Press Releases

U-17 World Cup: “Lagos Is Ready”, Says Fashola
• Offers Lagosians 15,000 free match tickets

Oct 23, 2009 - As the long-awaited Under-17 Championship tournament opens tomorrow in the country, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has expressed the readiness of the State to play host to the visitors.

Governor Fashola, who spoke to newsmen at the weekend, according to a Press Release signed by the Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Hakeem Bello, said every preparation has been made while facilities have been put in place to ensure that the visitors are secure and comfortable throughout the duration of the championship.

“Lagos is ready. I like to say that so far so good. The arrivals of the various teams have been without hitch and our people, from traffic officers to security men to immigration officers at the Airport, have acted in a manner that is most commendable. They have discharged services with a smile and I expect them to continue in this manner”, the Gover4nor said.

He disclosed that the State Government has purchased 15,000 match tickets at the cost of N28 million to enable Lagosians watch the matches to be played in the State during the competition adding that the tickets would be distributed free to Lagosians.

“What we have done at the Stake Government level is to ensure that there is opportunity for everybody in all the 20 Local Government Areas and the 37 Local Council Development Areas to see the match”, the Governor said adding that the Local Council Chairmen have were directed to make advance purchases of the tickets which they did.

According to Governor Fashola, “The tickets for the State will be distributed through the local government chairmen so that everybody, from wards to state and local government levels will get an opportunity to see at least one game”.

The Governor appealed to Lagosians to ensure that they use the tickets for the purpose which they are meant which is to see the matches to be played in the State warning that on no account should the tickets be resold for profit.

“I appeal to you; if you get your ticket please ensure that you use it and don’t try to sell it for profit. FIFA frowns at such practice. Once you get your ticket, go to the Stadium”, the Governor said.

The excitement of the tournament has already caught up in the Lagos metropolis as every step is being taken to ensure a hitch-free hosting.