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Philanthropist and businessman, Dr. Bola Akindele, has reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots football development, stating that his sponsorship of this year Bola Akindele U-15 Boys and Girls Football Tournament is aimed at securing the future of talented young Nigerians.
Speaking during the tournament’s trophy presentation ceremony in Lagos, Dr. Akindele said many gifted children are forced to hawk goods or roam the streets in search of daily survival, despite possessing exceptional football talent that could transform their lives.
“There are many hidden talents on our streets without hope. That is why I am sparing no effort to rescue them through the sponsorship of this competition,” he said.
To further motivate participants, organisers announced a total prize pool of ₦2 million for this year’s tournament.
Tournament Coordinator Taofeek Ajibola disclosed that the champions in both the boys’ and girls’ categories will receive ₦400,000 and a giant trophy. The runners-up will earn ₦300,000, while the third and fourth-placed teams will receive ₦200,000 and ₦100,000, respectively.
Outstanding individual performers will also be recognised with special cash awards.
Ajibola expressed appreciation to Dr. Akindele for his unwavering financial support, noting that the Lagos State Grassroots Soccer Association is committed to delivering a bigger, better, and more glamorous edition of the tournament.
Earlier, Dr. Adebola Ismail Akindele, Chairman of Courteville Business Solutions and the tournament’s benefactor, reiterated his dedication to youth development through sports. He noted that he has sustained the competition for the past ten years without government assistance, driven by a passion to create opportunities for young footballers.
According to him, the tournament serves as a productive platform for children during the school holidays, helping them develop their talents while steering them away from crime and other social vices.
The tournament will kick off on Saturday at the Ojoniyu Sports Centre, Ebute-Metta, Lagos. The opening fixture will see Webster Football Academy of Ikorodu take on Ultimate Warriors Football Academy of Mushin at 12 noon.
A total of 32 teams will compete in the boys’ category, while 24 teams have registered for the girls’ competition. Organisers also announced that fixtures for the girls’ category will be released on Friday afternoon.
