The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has hailed the 2026 Lagos FA Cup as a powerful blend of football excellence, youth development, and cultural celebration, following a thrilling finale at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
Adeboye, who was present at the finals, described the tournament as a shining example of how grassroots football can be structured to deliver impact beyond the pitch.
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“What we witnessed here today is more than football—it is development, culture, and the future of our game coming together. This is the kind of platform we must continue to build and support.”
The finals delivered excitement and dominance, as Ikorodu City FC edged G12 Football Club 1–0 to claim the men’s title, while FC Robo Queens put on a commanding display with a 4–0 victory over Ghetto Tigers in the women’s category.
The SSA commended the Lagos State Football Association, led by Gafar Olawale Liameed, for organizing a competition that not only showcased talent but also inspired the next generation.
“The inclusion of young players, especially the U-12s presenting the trophy, is a powerful statement. It shows intentional planning for the future, and that is exactly what grassroots development is about.”
Adeboye also praised the cultural infusion into the tournament, particularly the Eyo-inspired trophy presentation, noting that it adds identity and pride to the game.
“Football is not just a sport—it is part of our identity. Bringing culture into it makes it more meaningful and connects the people to the game.”
The SSA further acknowledged the presence and support of key stakeholders, ex-internationals, and traditional institutions, including the palace of Oba Rilwan Akiolu, describing the collaboration as vital to the growth of football.
“When stakeholders come together like this, it shows that football can truly unite and drive development across all levels.”
Reaffirming his commitment to grassroots sports, Adeboye emphasized that initiatives like the Lagos FA Cup align perfectly with the broader vision of building a sustainable football ecosystem in Nigeria.
“This is the direction we must continue—creating platforms, discovering talents, and giving young people opportunities to grow.”
As the curtains closed on another successful edition, Adeboye’s message was clear—
the future of Nigerian football is being shaped at the grassroots, and Lagos is setting the pace.
