By

Princewill Oviesan Deduke

..100 Teams Battle for Glory as Organisers Promise Fair Play, Talent Discovery

LAGOS – The countdown to the 2026 1X Cup Football Tournament gathered momentum on Friday as organisers sent a strong warning to participating teams, declaring that any club caught fielding professional players will face severe sanctions.

The warning came during the tournament’s official press conference in Lagos, where sponsors and organisers reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the integrity of what has become one of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football competitions.

General Manager of 1XBet Betting Company, Dimeji Adedapo, made it clear that the tournament remains exclusively for amateur and grassroots players, insisting that the competition’s primary objective is to discover young talents between the ages of 16 and 18 for international scouting opportunities.

According to Adedapo, the days when clubs secretly introduced players from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and the Nigeria National League (NNL) into grassroots competitions are over.

“We have carried out a comprehensive verification of all registered players from the 100 participating teams through our online registration platform. Every player’s profile has been scrutinised by our technical committee.

“If any team is found to have registered or fielded an active NPFL or NNL player during the tournament, such a team will be dealt with in line with the competition’s rules. There will be no compromise,” he warned.

He explained that only players featuring in the Nationwide League One (NLO) and lower grassroots leagues are eligible to compete in this year’s championship.

Also speaking, Head of Operations at 1XBet, Abiodun Babalola, expressed confidence in the preparations for the tournament, assuring participating teams, fans and stakeholders of a bigger, better and more professionally organised competition.

He noted that since its inception, the 1X Cup has grown beyond football by creating opportunities for young talents, stimulating local businesses and bringing communities together through the game.

Babalola urged football lovers across Lagos to troop to the various match venues to support their teams and witness the emergence of the next generation of football stars.

The tournament’s Head of Technical Department, Waidi Akanni, described the 1X Cup as a model for grassroots football development in Nigeria, pointing to the impressive turnout of 100 teams as proof of its growing popularity.

Akanni revealed that the teams have been drawn from five football divisions across Lagos State—Epe, Badagry, Lagos Division, Ikeja and Ikorodu—with only 24 teams advancing to the knockout stage after the qualifying rounds.

“The competition promises to be fiercely contested because every team understands what is at stake. Beyond the trophy, this is an opportunity for players to showcase their abilities before scouts and football stakeholders,” Akanni said.

The battle for grassroots football supremacy begins next Thursday at the Inspire Stadium, Oshodi-Cappa, Lagos, where hundreds of young footballers will launch their quest for glory, recognition and life-changing opportunities.

With pride, passion and promising careers on the line, the 2026 1X Cup is expected to deliver another thrilling chapter in Lagos grassroots football while producing the stars of tomorrow.

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The countdown has begun for the much-anticipated 1xCup 2026 as community football clubs across Lagos State prepare for an exciting battle in the qualifying rounds of one of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football tournaments.

The competition, which will run from July 23 to September 4, 2026, will take place at the Inspire Sport Arena, with matches scheduled every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

A total of 100 clubs drawn from the Ikeja, Lagos/Island, Badagry, Ikorodu and Epe Divisions will compete for qualification into the group stage. The championship continues to provide a platform for discovering young talents while promoting community football across Lagos State.

Ikeja Division Fixtures

The tournament opens on Thursday, July 23 with Qualifier One featuring:

• Inspire SC vs Da Faria FC
• Turfseason FC vs Oworo United FC

Qualifier Two will see:

• Dosu Joseph FA vs Ikosi FC
• Synergy Ultimate FC vs Crusader FC

On Saturday, August 1, Qualifier Three features:

• Somolu/Bariga FC vs Cityfut Escol FC
• Elite Stars FC vs Lagos Titan FC

Qualifier Four:

• Soccer Cardinal vs Royalty Athletic FC
• Dynamic FC vs Vinod FC

On Thursday, August 13, Qualifier Five includes:

• China Sun Stars FC vs Maryland United FC
• Austen Plus FC vs Bariga Stars FC

Qualifier Six concludes with:

• Diadem Stallion FC vs Zenith Emperor FC
• G Innovation FC vs Crystal FC

Lagos/Island Division Fixtures

On Friday, July 24, Qualifier One features:

• FC Bethel Sporting vs Dreamers FC
• Collins Edwin SC vs Prince Kazeem FC

Qualifier Two:

• 36 Lions FC vs Middlewell FC
• G-12 FC vs Goal Gether FC

On Thursday, August 6, Qualifier Three comprises:

• Emiloju FC vs Evolution United FA
• Team 360 FC vs Franceex United FC

Qualifier Four:

• Wasola FC vs Goal FC
• Vinod 99 FC vs Star To Be Academy FC

On Friday, August 14, Qualifier Five features:

• Young Strikers FC vs Peace FC
• Africano FC vs Middo Saka FA

On Saturday, August 15, Qualifier Six concludes with:

• Dominion Hotspur FC vs LOF United FC
• Devine Praise FC vs Prime Eleven FC

Badagry Division Fixtures

The Badagry qualifiers begin on Thursday, July 30.

Qualifier One:

• Vinmo Energy FC vs Budu Elite FA
• Ajuwa FA vs Kosas Phantom FC

Qualifier Two:

• ECAS FA vs BILDA FA
• Greenlock FC vs Dominion Excellent FA

On Saturday, August 8, Qualifier Three features:

• Emaljus FC vs Willyjoe-17 FA
• Young Pro FA vs Aux FC

Qualifier Four:

• Roro FC vs Legacy 340 SC
• Glorious Day FC vs JP Young Stars FC

On Thursday, August 20, Qualifier Five concludes with:

• Power of the Cross SA vs Edu Youth FC
• Royal Pharaoh FC vs Mega 22 FC

Epe Division Fixtures

Action begins on Friday, July 31.

Qualifier One:

• Ighalo FC vs Panther FC
• Pro Select FC vs Arich FC

Qualifier Two:

• Dolphin FC vs OOA FA
• Clique FA vs Daja FC

On Thursday, August 13, Qualifier Three features:

• Dynamic FC vs Luther FC
• De Potters FA vs Newhope FC

Road to the Group Stage

The qualifying series promises exciting contests as only the successful clubs from the various divisions will secure places in the 24-team group stage, where the race for the coveted 1xCup title will intensify.

With scouts, coaches and football enthusiasts expected to attend throughout the tournament, the 1xCup remains a vital platform for discovering the next generation of football stars. Over the years, the competition has continued to strengthen grassroots football, offering young players the opportunity to showcase their talents and earn pathways into professional football.

As the opening whistle draws closer, expectations are high that the 2026 edition will deliver thrilling football, fierce rivalries and another memorable chapter in the development of community football in Lagos State.

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The primary objective of this sports administration initiative is to engage a minimum of 200 youth participants between the ages of 10 and 16 years, positioning grassroots football as an engine for both athletic excellence and social impact. By offering structured training during the long holiday vacation, the program provides corporate sponsors a scalable platform to build a lasting legacy in corporate social responsibility. The specialized curriculum balances elite technical athletic instruction with critical life skills education.

The structural framework of the BUFC Summer Camp 1.0 focuses on key development benchmarks:

📌 Advancing technical football competencies for both boys and girls across the Badagry local government zone.

📌 Utilizing competitive sport to instill core values of discipline, teamwork, strategic leadership, and gender equality.

📌 Establishing clear pathways to identify and nurture elite athletic talent for future representation at school, club, state, and national levels.

📌 Providing a structured, secure, and productive alternative for youth engagement during the summer vacation.

📌 Strengthening the visible legacy of corporate stakeholders and brand sponsors in regional grassroots sports development.

The operational timeline of the camp is divided into distinct thematic phases to optimize player development and evaluation. The initial two weeks will prioritize fundamental skill development, physical fitness conditioning, and team-building exercises. The third week introduces advanced tactical training, internal match simulations, and workshops centered on education, health management, and personal confidence. The final week features an elite tournament, definitive talent identification scouting, and an awards ceremony with executive mentorship sessions.

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The 2026 edition of the highly celebrated Micura Street Soccer Tournament came to a thrilling conclusion at the Orege Playing Pitch in Ajegunle, Lagos, with Hausa Line emerging as champions after an exciting day of football, entertainment, and community celebration.

The tournament, which featured some of the finest grassroots football talents in Ajegunle, attracted an estimated crowd of over 3,000 spectators who thronged the Orege Pitch to witness the third-place match and the grand finale.

The third-place encounter between Mission Street and Jejelaye Street lived up to expectations as both teams battled fiercely throughout regulation time. Despite creating several scoring opportunities, neither side could find the breakthrough as the game ended in a goalless stalemate.

The match was eventually decided via a penalty shootout, where Mission Street displayed greater composure from the spot, defeating Jejelaye Street 3-2 after both teams had taken their allotted five penalties to secure the third-place position.

The grand finale was an electrifying contest between Hausa Line and Chikas Street. The two sides showcased quality football, determination, and tactical discipline in a match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. However, after a tense 90 minutes, both teams remained deadlocked, forcing the championship clash into a penalty shootout.

In the ensuing shootout, Hausa Line held their nerve to defeat Chikas Street 4-3, sparking wild celebrations among their supporters as they were crowned champions of the 2026 Micura Street Soccer Tournament.

The tournament offered a total prize pool of ₦4.5 million, making it one of the most attractive grassroots football competitions in the region. The competition was organized by Sholly Sports under the leadership of Shola Omojoye, whose commitment to youth development and grassroots football continues to impact the Ajegunle community positively.

The event was proudly sponsored by Micura Services Limited, chaired by High Chief Dr. Micheal Orobosa Ubogu, whose support contributed immensely to the success of the tournament and the promotion of community football.

Beyond the football action, the grand finale featured an array of musical performances and entertainment activities that kept fans engaged throughout the day. The event also attracted notable former footballers, respected community leaders, and prominent Ajegunle business moguls who graced the occasion and commended the organizers for staging a successful competition.

The 2026 Micura Street Soccer Tournament once again demonstrated the immense football potential within Ajegunle while providing a platform for young talents to showcase their abilities. As the curtains close on this year’s edition, football enthusiasts are already looking forward to an even bigger and more exciting tournament in 2027.

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By
Princewill Oviesan Deduke

The dusty pitches of Ajegunle and the coastal fields of Badagry are once again alive with energy, ambition, and raw football passion as young players gear up for the highly anticipated 1XCup tournament.

During a recent visiting tour to several academy training grounds, this reporter witnessed firsthand the growing excitement among grassroots footballers, many of whom see the competition as a golden opportunity to showcase their talent and change their lives.

In Ajegunle, long regarded as a breeding ground for Nigerian football stars, the atmosphere was electric. At a makeshift training pitch surrounded by cheering locals, teenagers in worn-out boots and mismatched jerseys trained with intensity and purpose. For them, the 1XCup is more than just a tournament—it is a stage for dreams.

“We’ve been preparing every day,” said 17-year-old midfielder Sodiq, who plays for a local academy side. “This is our chance to be seen. Scouts will come, and we want to prove that Ajegunle still produces the best talents.”

Coaches in the area echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing discipline, teamwork, and exposure. One academy coach noted that competitions like the 1XCup help redirect youthful energy into productive ventures, keeping many away from social vices while nurturing their football careers.

Moving towards Badagry, the story remains the same—but with a unique cultural touch. The serene environment contrasts with the fierce determination seen on the training grounds. Young players trained under the watchful eyes of their coaches, blending skill with physical endurance as they prepared for the challenge ahead.

At one of the Badagry academy fields, a group of players paused briefly after a rigorous session, discussing tactics and their expectations for the tournament. For them, the 1XCup represents pride—not just personal ambition, but also the honor of representing their community.

“Our goal is to bring the trophy to Badagry,” said a young defender, confidently. “We know teams from Ajegunle are strong, but we are ready.”

Parents and local supporters have also thrown their weight behind the players, often gathering around training sessions to cheer and encourage them. The sense of community support has added to the motivation, making the upcoming tournament a unifying event for both regions.

Organized to promote grassroots football and discover emerging talents, the 1XCup—structured in the IBILE format—continues to gain recognition as one of the most impactful community-based tournaments in Lagos State.

As the countdown begins, one thing is clear: from the bustling streets of Ajegunle to the historic shores of Badagry, young footballers are not just preparing to compete—they are preparing to announce themselves to the world.

For many of these players, the journey to greatness may just begin with a single kick in the 1XCup.

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The upcoming 2026 1Xcup is set to take a historic and highly structured turn. In a comprehensive breakdown shared on Facebook, the tournament’s Technical Director, former Super Eagles international and ex-Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Alhaji Waidi Akanni, officially detailed the implementation of the “IBILE” format for the highly anticipated tournament scheduled to run from July to October 2026, and this edition has the ex international winger Dimeji laws as the competition general manager.

​Now heading into its next massive chapter, the 1XCup has grown into Nigeria’s premier grassroots football development championship. By integrating the traditional local government layout, organizers aim to maximize raw talent discovery while introducing fierce community pride to the tournament.
​What is the IBILE Format?
​For those unfamiliar with Lagos sports administration, IBILE is an acronym representing the five original, native administrative divisions of Lagos State. Akanni explained that instead of a random, statewide draw that often causes logistical nightmares and massive travel expenses for non-league teams, the 2026 1Xcup will begin as a decentralized regional battle across these distinct zones:
​I — Ikorodu: Capturing the exploding football talent across the northeastern mainland.
​B — Badagry: Giving a voice to coastal and western border-axis teams.
​I — Ikeja: Anchoring the heavily populated, central hub of industrial Lagos.
​L — Lagos Island: Tapping into the traditional, spiritual heartland of street and community football.
​E — Epe: Providing visibility to the rapidly rising talent pool in the eastern coastal communities.
​From the Streets to a ₦20 Million Grand Prize
​According to Akanni’s update, the format serves a dual purpose: professionalizing grassroots football while keeping entry completely accessible to true amateur sides.

​The tournament structure will weed out professional league players, ensuring that only “unpolished gems” from local communities get their moment in the spotlight. Over 100 grassroots clubs are expected to enter the initial divisional qualifiers. Following these intense local derbies, the 24 best teams will emerge to be divided into six final groups, battling for a spot in the elite knockout rounds.
​The stakes have never been higher. The 2026 edition boasts a massive ₦20,000,000 (Twenty Million Naira) prize pool, alongside the highly coveted championship trophy.
​A Direct Pipeline to Pro Football
​Waidi Akanni, who has dedicated much of his post-playing career to giving back to Nigerian youth, emphasized that the 1XCup is no longer just a local recreational tournament—it has become a verified “talent factory.”
​”Some of Nigeria’s greatest footballers emerged from community pitches,” Akanni previously noted regarding the tournament’s core vision. “The 1XCup is a golden opportunity to rebuild that pipeline.”

​The numbers back up his claim. More than 30 players from past editions have successfully parlayed their performances in this tournament into professional contracts both domestically and across Europe—securing deals in countries like Bulgaria, Norway, North Macedonia, and Albania.

​With scouts from across Africa and Europe confirmed to be monitoring the knockout stages starting this July, the IBILE format guarantees that every neighborhood in Lagos has a fair, structured path to the global stage.
​Registration requires a tight roster of 25 players and 3 officials, all verified via National Identification Numbers (NIN) or International Passports to maintain strict amateur integrity.
​Key Tournament Details:
​Timeline: July to October 2026
​Format: Regional IBILE Qualifiers leading to a 24-team Final Tournament
​Eligibility: Strictly non-league/amateur community teams
​Total Prize Pool: ₦20,000,000

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The draw ceremony for the competition is scheduled for June 3, while the tournament itself will kick off on June 8 and run through to August 8, promising weeks of thrilling football action and intense rivalry among some of the finest grassroots teams across the state. The championship will reward excellence with attractive cash prizes of ₦1,000,000 for the winners, ₦500,000 for the runners-up, and ₦300,000 for the third-place team.

Beyond the prize money, the Hon. Ajide/APC Cup is expected to serve as a vital platform for talent discovery and youth empowerment. Grassroots tournaments continue to play a major role in the development of football in Lagos and Nigeria, creating opportunities for young players to showcase their abilities before scouts, clubs, and football stakeholders. Similar competitions across Lagos have been recognized for promoting grassroots football and youth engagement.

The inclusion of teams from the major football divisions of Lagos reflects the spirit of unity and healthy competition that football brings to communities. The tournament is also expected to strengthen relationships among youths, encourage discipline, and promote positive social values through sports.

As excitement builds ahead of the June 3 draw ceremony, football fans across Lagos are already anticipating a memorable competition that will further highlight the growing importance of grassroots football development in the state.

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With an impressive prize pool designed to reward excellence and participation, the stakes are high:

🥇 ₦400,000 for the champions

🥈 ₦200,000 for the runners-up

🥉 ₦100,000 for the third-place team

This maiden edition signals a strong commitment to grassroots football development, providing a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills while strengthening community bonds.

The Igbede Peace Traders Cup is not just about goals and trophies. It reflects a deeper vision—using sport as a tool for peacebuilding and social cohesion. In a bustling commercial hub like Igbede, where traders from diverse backgrounds interact daily, this competition serves as a unifying force, encouraging collaboration over conflict.

Local organizers emphasize that the tournament will:

Promote peaceful coexistence among traders and residents

Engage youths positively, steering them away from social vices

Boost local businesses through increased activity during match days

Discover and nurture raw football talents within the community

Nigeria’s football greatness has always been rooted in community competitions like this. The Igbede Peace Traders Cup aims to revive that tradition by creating opportunities for young players to gain exposure and experience competitive football in an organized setting.

Scouts, football enthusiasts, and stakeholders are expected to keep a close eye on the tournament, as it may produce the next generation of stars from the streets of Ojo.

As the first edition unfolds, expectations are high that the Igbede Peace Traders Cup will become an annual highlight in Ojo’s sporting calendar. With strong community backing and attractive incentives, it has all the ingredients to grow into a landmark grassroots competition in Lagos.

In a time where unity is needed more than ever, this tournament stands as a reminder that football remains one of the most powerful tools for bringing people together.

The message is clear: in Igbede, peace wins—and football leads the way.

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Princewill Oviesan Deduke

OLABIM Sports Academy is steadily carving a name for itself as a rising force in grassroots football development, with a clear vision to nurture young male and female talents and give them a platform to shine on bigger stages.

Driven by passion, structure, and professionalism, the academy is committed to building future stars through quality training, discipline, and exposure to competitive football. What sets OLABIM sports academy has a direct engagement with the Nigeria Football Federation, ensuring that its activities align with national standards and opportunities within the football ecosystem.

This connection not only strengthens the credibility of the academy but also opens doors for players to access pathways into elite competitions, national programs, and career advancement in football.

Beyond the pitch, OLABIM Sports Academy stands for empowerment, giving young boys and girls the confidence, platform, and support needed to pursue their dreams both in sports and in life. The academy is not just developing players—it is shaping future leaders and ambassadors of the game.

With growing recognition and a strong foundation, OLABIM Sports Academy that compromise male and female categories is ready to take its place on the global stage, showcasing talent, excellence, and the true spirit of the game.

The mission is clear: develop, connect, and promote the next generation of football stars.

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In football, recognition often goes beyond the pitch. It is about honoring those who have stood firm in building structures that empower communities and strengthen the culture of ownership. At the upcoming Football in the Community Conference in Badagry on Saturday, May 16, 2026, the Community Football Foundation (CFF) will present the first batch of Badagry United Football Club (BUFC) Platinum Membership Cards to distinguished members who have played pivotal roles in advancing community football in Nigeria.

This presentation, which will also include the club’s muffler, symbolizes a new chapter in fostering community ownership and loyalty in Nigerian football. Among the recipients are respected leaders and stakeholders such as DCG Jibo Bello (Rtd), Oba Oyekan Adekanmi Ilufemiloye, Prince Seyon Adeyemi Akran, Hon Babatunde Hunpe, Hadji Gafar Liammed, Hon Rauf Ibrahim Kayode Yemaren, Alh Mubashiru Adetona, CAC AS Kaila, Chief Abel Mautin Ogunbiyi, Ogunyale Ibukun Micheal, Ajao Ogunlola, and Chief Kabiru Alassan Sariki Arewa.

The gesture underscores the theme of the conference — “Building Community Football Clubs Ownership Culture in Nigeria” — and highlights BUFC’s pioneering role in promoting grassroots football through inclusivity, accountability, and shared responsibility. By recognizing these individuals, CFF and BUFC are not only celebrating leadership but also inspiring communities to embrace football as a tool for unity, development, and cultural pride.

This milestone event will take place at the Conference Hall, Alapa of Apa Palace, Badagry, Lagos, with royal and civic dignitaries in attendance. It marks a significant step toward embedding community ownership in Nigerian football, ensuring that the game belongs to the people and thrives through their collective support.

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