May 2, 2026 (NAN) — Ikeja Local Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development through sports, throwing its weight behind the Daduro Midnight Street Football League, a 3-a-side grassroots tournament aimed at empowering young people and strengthening community ties.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the third edition of the competition kicked off in the early hours of Saturday at Alausa Community, with matches commencing at midnight.
Speaking at the opening match, the Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Dauda, commended the initiative, describing it as a landmark platform for nurturing young talents and promoting healthy living. He also assured organisers of the council’s continued support and pledged proper monitoring of standout players for greater opportunities.
Represented by the Executive Vice Chairman, Hon Abisola Omisore, emphasised that investment in grassroots sports goes beyond recreation.
He affirmed “Football is more than just a game; it is a unifying force and a powerful tool for youth empowerment, social cohesion, and talent discovery. This tournament offers our young people a platform to showcase their abilities and pursue their aspirations,” Omisore said.
He added that the competition would further strengthen community bonds while instilling discipline, teamwork, and resilience among participants.
Founder of the tournament, Mr. Saheed Adepitan, said winners of the competition would receive a trophy and a cash prize of ₦800,000, while the runners-up would take home ₦500,000.
According to him, the initiative was driven by a passion for football and a desire to promote unity among youths in the community.
“Outstanding players will be considered for advanced training opportunities. We appreciate our supporters for their encouragement, both morally and financially, as well as the Ikeja Local Government for its continued backing,” Adepitan said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the tournament, Mr. Musbau Olamilekan, noted that the midnight football format has helped to deepen community engagement and foster unity.
He explained that the competition features teams drawn from community clubs, with matches held at Makinde Street in Alausa, Ikeja.
“Beyond the excitement on the pitch, the tournament encourages youth participation in sports and boosts local economic activities, as traders record increased sales during match periods,” he said.
The Competition Sports Director, Mr. Ganiyu Ajenifuja, added that the tournament has continued to serve as a platform for young talents across Ikeja to shine, expressing optimism about its future growth.
In the opening fixtures, Eboue FC edged Soccer Boyz FC 5–4, Ohintin FC defeated FC Bashir 1–0, while Oga Sanny FC recorded an emphatic 8–3 victory over Ejanla FC.
