For over four months, football fields in Lagos have been buzzing with energy from parents, coaches, scouts, and fans as hundreds of young footballers pursue their dreams.
On Sunday, June 28, the journey will peak as the seventh edition of the JOF U-13 Cup Football Tournament reaches its final match at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Sports Arena.
The final will feature VI Foot from Ijora going up against Fortune Football Academy from Oshodi at 3 p.m. Earlier in the day, at 1 p.m., Soccer City FA from Iwaya will compete with Ultimate Football Academy from Coker Aguda for third place.
This final is not just about winning trophies and medals. It marks the end of months filled with hard work, discipline, and dedication from some of Lagos State’s top young football talents.
The tournament kicked off on February 6 and included 64 clubs from the 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos State. A total of 84 matches took place across three venues, showcasing thrilling moments and the skills of young players.
For many young participants, the JOF U-13 Cup is more than just a football tournament. It serves as a platform for players to develop their skills while learning values like teamwork, discipline, leadership, and resilience.
Organised by the Lagos State Grassroots Football Association and sponsored by JOF Nigeria Limited, the tournament has become one of the top grassroots football events in Lagos. Over the years, it has played a key role in finding and nurturing young talent.
Ahead of the final match, the Chairman of the JOF U-13 Football Tournament Committee, Adeyinka Adetunji, shared his happiness about the success of this year’s edition.
He noted that the 2026 tournament has drawn a lot of interest from football stakeholders and grassroots sports fans.
“This year’s edition has been the loudest and most highly anticipated showcase of Lagos’ youngest stars. The JOF U-13 competition has once again spotlighted talented grassroots footballers across the state,” he said.
His comments show how vital grassroots football is to Nigeria's football future. While people often look at professional leagues and international matches, every great player starts somewhere, usually on local fields where talent is first spotted.
The JOF U-13 Cup has become one of those crucial starting points. It offers young players a chance to play organised football, while coaches and scouts can spot outstanding talent that may move on to football academies and professional clubs.
The tournament also highlights the important role of corporate support in sports development. For JOF Nigeria Limited, this initiative is an investment in youth and community development, creating opportunities for kids who might not have access to organised sports programs.
This year’s edition has received backing from several corporate organisations, showing growing trust in grassroots football as a means for youth development. Sponsors include First Bank Plc, Nestlé Plc, Nigerian Breweries Plc, and Custodian Investment Plc.
Organisers have announced prizes for the winners, first runners-up, and second runners-up, while individual awards will go to outstanding players.
The closing ceremony is expected to draw former Nigerian internationals, sports administrators, corporate leaders, and football fans. Among the confirmed guests are the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of JOF Nigeria Limited, Olusegun Olugboyegun, and his wife, Bola Olugboyegun.
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