56 COMMUNITY TEAMS COMPETE FOR TAIWO AFOLABI CUP TITLE

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By: Fasasi Hammad

No fewer than 56 grassroots football teams are set to compete for honours as the 10th edition of the Taiwo Afolabi U-17 Football Tournament kicks off today in Lagos, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Organised by the Lagos State Grassroots Soccer Association (LSGSA) and sponsored by SIFAX Group, the tournament features 32 male and 24 female teams, making it one of the state’s largest youth football competitions.

Held in honour of Dr Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SIFAX Group, the tournament has become a key platform for identifying and nurturing young football talent over the past decade.

Preliminary matches will take place at the Ojo Oniyun Sports Centre, Ebute Metta, and the Anthony Mini Stadium, Gbagada, while the grand finale is scheduled for May 2, 2026, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

At a press briefing, Afuka Abu, Assistant Secretary of LSGSA, highlighted the tournament’s success in developing young players.

“This tournament has consistently given young players the structure, exposure, and discipline needed to progress in football. Many participants have advanced to national teams and professional clubs. Our goal is to provide every talented child with a real opportunity,” Abu said.

SIFAX Group has supported the competition for a decade as part of its commitment to youth empowerment, sports development, and community growth.

Oliver Omajuwa, Deputy Director of Strategy and Operations at SIFAX Group, said the sponsorship reflects the company’s philosophy of creating long-term value.

“Talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not. This tournament is more than a competition; it is a platform for discovery, development, and hope. For us, Corporate Social Responsibility is ongoing, not a one-off gesture,” Omajuwa stated.

Over the years, the Taiwo Afolabi Cup has unearthed several talents who have gone on to represent Nigeria and play for clubs abroad. Notable alumni include Samson Tijani (Dukla Prague), Soliu Afolabi (Slovan Liberec), Chijioke Light (WAFU Championship and Women’s AFCON), and Ebenezer Ojo (Norwegian league).

Scouts, football administrators, and former internationals are expected to attend the tournament to identify emerging talents and mentor participants.

The 10th edition will celebrate a decade of impact while raising the bar for grassroots football development in Lagos.