Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has highlighted the critical role that sports play in engaging, empowering, and inspiring the youth, describing it as a powerful tool for social development and nation-building. He made this remark while receiving the iconic English Premier League (EPL) trophy during the Guinness Match Day event, hosted by Guinness Nigeria on Sunday.
 
The event, which was held at the Lagos State Government House, Marina, offered Lagosians the rare opportunity to view the authentic EPL trophy just a week before its official presentation in England.
 
Speaking at the event, Sanwo-Olu commended Guinness Nigeria for its enduring commitment to community engagement through sports, describing the company as “a 75-year-old young man” that has not only withstood the test of time but continues to deepen its roots in Nigeria. He praised the company’s initiative to use football as a medium for social responsibility and youth engagement.
 
“For me, it’s about using sport as a change agent. It’s a rallying tool, a way of identifying and nurturing the skills of our youth, and a means to promote responsible citizenship,” the governor said. He added: “This trophy isn’t just a symbol of victory; it’s a symbol of possibility for our young people.”
 
Echoing the governor’s sentiment, Guinness’s Corporate Relations Director, Rotimi Olushola, emphasised the shared passion Nigerians have for both Guinness and the beautiful game.
 
“The passion Nigerians have for football is just as strong as their love for Guinness,” Olushola said. “Bringing the EPL trophy to Nigeria and hosting this event is our way of celebrating that connection and delivering magical moments to our consumers.”
 
He also noted the synergy between Guinness as a brand and the EPL as a cultural force that unites people across social divides.
 
The Guinness Match Day event, which continued later in the evening, offered fans an immersive football viewing experience, featuring live match screenings, 360-degree interactive displays, and branded experiences in participating bars.
 
Earlier, the Marketing and Innovation Manager for Guinness Nigeria, Yinka Bakare, extended an open invitation to the public, describing the event as more than a celebration of football, saying that it is a celebration of the spirit that unites Nigerians.
 
“It’s not just about the trophy, it’s about passion, unity, and the game that brings us all together, with a cold Guinness in hand, of course,” Bakare said.