The countdown to the second edition of the Lagos Ex-International Cup has officially begun, and the excitement across the Lagos football community is already palpable. Long before the first ball is kicked, former Nigerian internationals are stepping forward, unveiling the clubs they will own, coach, or adopt for what promises to be another landmark grassroots football tournament in the state.
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For Lagos football followers, this competition is not just about nostalgia. It is about reconnecting legends of the green, white, and green era with the streets, pitches, and communities that shaped them. It is also about mentorship, structure, and the rebirth of community-based football driven by experience.
Some of the ex-internationals already own or manage football clubs, meaning their task is simply to strengthen their squads and get them tournament ready. Others without established teams are adopting clubs within their communities, a move that reinforces the competition’s grassroots philosophy.
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Tournament Format Confirmed
According to Mr Keye Onadeko, Technical Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, the tournament will be played on a home and away basis across two legs. This format ensures that football truly returns to the neighbourhoods, allowing fans to experience elite mentorship-driven football within their local environments.
LSFA Opens Submission of Adopted Teams
In an official communication released by Mr Okunoye Kayode Yussuf, Assistant Secretary of the Lagos State Football Association, participating ex-internationals were formally notified that the submission process for adopted teams has commenced.
The LSFA confirmed that several clubs already owned by ex-internationals have been duly recorded. These include
FC Dosu
FC Agali
FC Ayegbeni
FC Ayila
FC Dominic
FC Temile
In addition, adopted teams already submitted include
FC Nwosu representing 36 Lion FC
FC Nieketien representing Ajunwa FC
FC Babington representing Ikorodu City FC
The Association has urged all remaining ex-internationals and legends yet to submit their adopted club names to do so on or before January 5, 2026.
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More Legends Declare Interest
The list of legends embracing the project continues to grow. Ex-internationals who have indicated interest in adopting teams include
Godwin Okpara with Messiah FC
Ifeanyin Udeze with AJ Selected
Festus Odini with Ovation FC
Jide Oguntuase with Bariga Stars
For communities like Bariga, Ikorodu, and others across Lagos Mainland and Island, this development means exposure, guidance, and renewed hope for young footballers dreaming of professional careers.
Clear Conditions for Adopted Teams
To maintain discipline and uphold the integrity of the competition, the LSFA has outlined clear requirements for all adopted teams. Every team must be affiliated with the Lagos State Football Association. Supporters must be non-violent, club owners must be non-violent, and there must be full respect for match officials. Teams are also expected to maintain proper control of players at all times.
The FA has made it clear that it reserves the right to reject any adopted team that fails to meet these conditions.
Adopted team names and designated home venues are to be submitted via 07080024467 on or before January 5, 2026.
Tournament Vision Beyond Football
Speaking further, Mr Okunoye Kayode explained that the core idea behind the Lagos Ex International Cup goes beyond competition.
According to him, the tournament is designed to help former players reconnect with their playing instincts while also serving as mentor coaches who inspire young talents through hands-on guidance and tactical knowledge gained during their active careers.
Participating legends have also been advised to select suitable community playing grounds that will serve as home venues for their matches, reinforcing the local identity of the tournament.
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Waidi Akanni Reinforces Eligibility Rules
Engineer Waidi Akanni, Chief Executive Officer of the Ex-Internationals Cup, reiterated to his colleagues that all adopted teams must strictly be affiliated with the LSFA and meet all eligibility requirements laid out by the Association.
His message was clear. This tournament is about structure, discipline, and legacy, not just names and reputations.
Lagos Braces for a Football Revival
As preparations intensify, one thing is certain. From Agege to Ajegunle, Bariga to Ikorodu, and every corner of Lagos in between, grassroots football is set for a major revival. The streets will once again feel the influence of men who once carried the nation’s hopes on their shoulders.
With legends mentoring, coaching, and inspiring, Lagos is preparing for weeks of football that blend memory, mentorship, and the future of Nigerian football.
Feature Image Credit: Dosu Joseph FC
