The countdown to the second edition of the Lagos Ex-International Cup has officially begun, igniting renewed excitement across the Lagos football ecosystem as former Nigerian internationals step forward to unveil the clubs they will own, coach, or adopt ahead of the landmark grassroots tournament.
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More than a nostalgia-driven reunion, the competition is fast positioning itself as a strategic platform for mentorship, structure, and community football revival.
It reconnects legends of the green, white, and green era with the streets, pitches, and neighbourhoods that shaped their careers, while offering young players rare access to elite football experience at the grassroots level.
Several ex-internationals already own or manage football clubs and are now focused on strengthening their squads for the tournament.
Others, in line with the competition’s grassroots philosophy, have chosen to adopt community-based teams within their local areas, reinforcing football development at the neighbourhood level.
According to the Technical Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Mr. Keye Onadeko, the tournament will be played on a two-leg, home-and-away basis.
This format, he explained, ensures that football truly returns to the communities, allowing fans to witness mentorship-driven football within familiar local environments.
In an official communication signed by the Assistant Secretary of the LSFA, Mr. Okunoye Kayode Yussuf, participating ex-internationals were formally notified that the submission process for adopted teams has commenced.
The LSFA confirmed that clubs already owned by ex-internationals and duly recorded include FC Dosu, FC Agali, FC Ayegbeni, FC Ayila, FC Dominic, and FC Temile.
Adopted teams already submitted include FC Nwosu representing 36 Lion FC, FC Nieketien representing Ajunwa FC, and FC Babington representing Ikorodu City FC.
The Association has urged all remaining ex-internationals and football legends yet to submit their adopted teams to do so on or before January 5, 2026.
Interest in the project continues to grow, with more legends signaling their readiness to participate. Among those who have indicated interest in adopting teams are Godwin Okpara with Messiah FC, Ifeanyin Udeze with AJ Selected, Festus Odini with Ovation FC, and Jide Oguntuase with Bariga Stars.
For communities across Bariga, Ikorodu, Lagos Mainland, and the Island, the development represents renewed hope, exposure, and structured guidance for young footballers chasing professional careers.
To safeguard discipline and integrity, the LSFA has outlined strict requirements for all adopted teams. Every team must be affiliated with the LSFA, supporters and club owners must be non-violent, match officials must be respected at all times, and teams are expected to maintain firm control over players.
The Association has reserved the right to reject any adopted team that fails to meet these standards.
Adopted team names and designated home venues are to be submitted via 07080024467 on or before January 5, 2026.
Speaking further, Mr. Onadeko emphasized that the Lagos Ex-International Cup is designed to go beyond competition. According to him, the tournament allows former players to reconnect with their playing instincts while serving as mentor-coaches, passing on tactical knowledge and professional discipline gained during their active careers.
Chief Executive Officer of the Ex-Internationals Cup, Engineer Waidi Akanni, reinforced this position, stressing that all adopted teams must strictly comply with LSFA affiliation and eligibility requirements.
His message was unequivocal: the competition is about structure, discipline, and legacy — not just famous names.
As preparations intensify, Lagos is bracing for a grassroots football revival. From Agege to Ajegunle, Bariga to Ikorodu, the influence of former internationals is set to once again shape the streets.
With legends mentoring, coaching, and inspiring, the Lagos Ex-International Cup promises weeks of football that seamlessly blend memory, mentorship, and the future of Nigerian football.
