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The organisers of Nigeria’s premier grassroots football competition, 1xCup, have unveiled ambitious plans for the 2026 edition, with 100 grassroots clubs set to compete for a ₦20 million prize package in what promises to be the tournament’s biggest and most professionally organised edition since its launch.
Beyond the prize money, organisers say the competition has been designed to strengthen the pathway from grassroots to professional football through expanded scouting opportunities, improved live streaming, comprehensive player profiling, wider media coverage and a structured player development programme.
The plans were unveiled during the official launch of the fourth edition of the tournament at a press conference in Ikeja, Lagos, on Friday.
Speaking at the event, 1xCup General Manager, Adedapo Dimeji, said the competition has evolved remarkably since its introduction in 2023, transforming from an experimental grassroots initiative into one of Nigeria’s leading football talent development platforms.
According to him, more than 180 clubs and over 5,000 players have participated in the competition, with several graduates earning professional opportunities in Nigeria, across Africa and in Europe.
“This year’s edition represents another major milestone in our journey,” Dimeji said.
“Since its inception in 2023, the 1xCup has grown into one of the country’s leading platforms for discovering and developing grassroots football talent. The tournament has featured more than 180 clubs and over 5,000 players, with several participants progressing into professional football opportunities within Nigeria, Africa and Europe.”
Dimeji stressed that the competition’s mission extends beyond producing champions.
“The tournament is not only about winning trophies. It is about creating opportunities. Our vision is to provide talented young footballers with a professionally organised competition where they can showcase their abilities before scouts, clubs, football administrators and fans. We remain committed to creating a clear pathway from grassroots football to the professional game.”
He disclosed that the 2026 edition will feature 100 clubs drawn from Lagos State’s five traditional divisions—Agege (Ikeja Division), Lagos Island, Badagry, Ikorodu and Epe.
According to him, the expanded format is aimed at increasing community participation, fostering local rivalries and providing more young players with opportunities to impress local and international scouts.
Dimeji also announced an enhanced reward structure, featuring a ₦20 million prize pool, individual player awards, greater media exposure, improved match organisation and a significantly expanded scouting network.
He commended Beaufortbet Nigeria Limited (1xBet Nigeria) for its continued investment in grassroots football, describing the company’s support as a strong demonstration of its commitment to youth empowerment and football development.
He also acknowledged the support of the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the Lagos State Sports Commission, community leaders, referees, volunteers and media partners for their contributions to the competition’s growth.
Addressing the participating teams, Dimeji urged players to uphold discipline, respect and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
“Football has the power to unite communities, inspire young people and create life-changing opportunities. To all participating clubs, compete with passion, discipline, respect and fair play,” he said.
Providing the tournament’s technical overview, Technical Director and former Super Eagles defender Waidi Akanni revealed that interest in this year’s edition reached a record high.
According to Akanni, nearly 800 teams registered for the competition, but only 100 secured places after undergoing a rigorous screening and verification process.
“Every team went through extensive screening and verification to ensure fairness, credibility and professionalism before the final selections were made,” Akanni said.
He added that the allocation of participating clubs across the five divisions reflects historical registration trends, ensuring equitable representation while maintaining the tournament’s competitive standards.
