For over four months, football pitches across Lagos have echoed with cheers from parents, coaches, scouts, and supporters as hundreds of young footballers chased a dream bigger than themselves. On Sunday, June 28, 2026, that journey will reach its climax as the 7th edition of the JOF U-13 Cup Football Tournament concludes at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Sports Arena.
The grand finale will see VI Foot of Ijora battle Fortune Football Academy of Oshodi in the championship match at 3 p.m., while Soccer City FA of Iwaya and Ultimate Football Academy of Coker Aguda will contest the third-place match at 1 p.m.
Beyond trophies and medals, the final represents the culmination of months of hard work, discipline, and determination by some of Lagos State’s most promising young football talents.
Since kicking off on February 6, 2026, the tournament has brought together 64 clubs drawn from the 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) across Lagos State. Over the course of the competition, 84 matches were played on three different pitches, producing moments of brilliance, excitement, and inspiration.
For many participants, the JOF U-13 Cup is more than just a football tournament. It is a platform where dreams are nurtured and future stars are discovered. It is where young players learn teamwork, discipline, leadership, and resilience — qualities that extend far beyond the football field.
Organised by the Lagos State Grassroots Football Association and sponsored by JOF Nigeria Limited, the competition has steadily grown into one of the most respected grassroots football tournaments in Lagos. Year after year, it continues to serve as a vital pathway for identifying and developing young footballers.
Speaking ahead of the final, the Chairman of the JOF U-13 Football Tournament Committee, Mr. Adeyinka Adetunji, expressed satisfaction with the success of this year’s edition.
According to him, the 2026 competition has generated unprecedented excitement among football stakeholders and followers of grassroots sports.
“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 remarks underscore the growing significance of grassroots football as a foundation for the future of Nigerian football. While the spotlight often shines on professional leagues and international competitions, the journey of every great footballer begins somewhere — often on community fields and neighbourhood pitches where raw talent is first identified.
The JOF U-13 Cup has become one of those important starting points.
Through the tournament, young players gain exposure to organised competition, while coaches and scouts are provided with opportunities to identify exceptional talents capable of progressing to elite academies and professional clubs.
The tournament also reflects the power of corporate social responsibility in sports development. For JOF Nigeria Limited, this initiative is an investment in youth empowerment and community development. By supporting grassroots football, the company is helping to create opportunities for children who may otherwise lack access to structured sporting platforms.
This year’s edition received strong corporate support, reflecting growing confidence in grassroots football as a driver of social impact and talent development. Corporate partners include First Bank Plc, Nestlé Plc, Nigerian Breweries Plc, and Custodian Investment Plc.
As excitement builds toward the final, organisers have announced attractive prizes for the winners, first runners-up, and second runners-up. Individual awards will also be presented to outstanding players who distinguished themselves during the competition.
The closing ceremony is expected to attract an impressive gathering of stakeholders, including former Nigerian football internationals, sports administrators, corporate leaders, and football enthusiasts. Confirmed guests include the Chairman and CEO of JOF Nigeria Limited, Dr. Olusegun Olugboyegun, and his wife, Mrs. Bola Olugboyegun