Former Nigerian football stars, including Daniel Amokachi, Dosu Joseph, Tajudeen Disu, Fatai Amoo and Waidi Akanni, were among the dignitaries who attended the final of the 10th edition of the Taiwo Afolabi Football Tournament at the Onikan Stadium in Lagos.
The annual U-17 competition has become one of the leading grassroots football tournaments in Lagos State. Sponsored by Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SIFAX Group, the tournament aims to discover, nurture and promote young football talents across the state.
After weeks of intense competition, Fortune FA of Oshodi emerged champions in the boys’ category, while Labro Queen FC of Oyingbo claimed the girls’ title.
In the boys’ final, Fortune FA defeated Dynamo FC of Iwaya 2-0. Quadri Popoola and Agbato Wasiu scored the goals that secured the championship for their team.
The girls’ final produced a closely contested encounter between Labro Queen FC and Starlet Girls FC of Idimu. Both sides failed to score during regulation time, forcing the match into a penalty shootout. Labro Queen eventually triumphed after converting five of their six penalties, while Starlet Girls managed four successful kicks from six attempts.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Group Executive Chairman of SIFAX Group, reflected on the tournament’s growth over the last decade. He expressed satisfaction with its impact on youth development and talent discovery.
Accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Folashade Afolabi, he recalled that the competition started as a simple football match organised to celebrate his birthday before evolving into a structured platform for identifying and supporting young footballers.
According to him, the tournament was established to provide opportunities for young people to channel their energy positively, develop discipline and gain exposure that could shape their future careers.
“We need to encourage the youth, because without encouraging them, they cannot be successful. Young, talented football players like the ones featured in this tournament require consistent guidance, mentorship and platforms that help them build their skills and confidence, as well as assist them to remain focused so as to fulfil their potential, both on and off the pitch,” Afolabi said.
The Lagos State Grassroots Soccer Association also praised Afolabi and SIFAX Group for sustaining the competition for ten years. The association noted that the tournament has played a significant role in developing youth football in Lagos State.
Secretary of the association, Mr. Aliyu Ganiyu, said the competition has provided many young players with opportunities to showcase their talents. He added that several participants from previous editions have gone on to play professional football in Nigeria and abroad.
As the tournament marks its 10th anniversary, stakeholders say its continued success highlights the importance of grassroots sports development in creating pathways for young athletes and strengthening the future of Nigerian football.
