56 teams compete for N2m in Akindele football tournament

A total of 56 teams will compete for a prize of N2m at the ninth Bola Akindele U-15 Boys and Girls football tournament. The organisers revealed the trophy during a ceremony in Lagos.

At the event, Dr Adebola Akindele said the tournament aims to secure the future of talented youths. He mentioned that many of these young people roam the streets daily, searching for a way to make a living despite their talents.

“These hidden talents are on the street without hope. That’s why I’m doing everything I can to rescue them through this competition,” Akindele said.

The organisers believe the true value of the tournament goes beyond winning. It also includes the lessons learned, the friendships made, and the memories created. They want to develop talent, build character, and inspire a love for football in the children.

Tournament coordinator, Taofeek Ajibola, announced that winners in both the boys’ and girls’ categories will receive N400,000 and a trophy each. The first runners-up will get N300,000.

The teams that finish in third and fourth place will take home N200,000 and N100,000 respectively. There will also be cash prizes for outstanding players during the tournament.

Ajibola thanked Akindele for his financial support and promised that this year’s edition will be bigger, better, and more exciting.

Earlier, Akindele, who is also the Chairman of Courteville Business Solutions, reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots football in the state. He pointed out that his company has sponsored the tournament for the past eight years without any support from the government.

He said sponsoring a grassroots football tournament empowers young people, especially during their holiday time. He urged the players to give their best and avoid any bad behaviors that could tarnish the tournament’s image.

The tournament will start on Saturday at the Ojoniyu Sports Centre in Ebute-Metta, Lagos Mainland. Webster Football Academy from Ikorodu will face Ultimate Warriors Football Academy from Mushin at noon.

In total, 32 teams registered for the boys’ category, while 24 teams signed up for the girls’ category. The organisers will announce the fixtures for the girls’ category on Friday.

The grand finale will take place on Sunday, August 30.