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Fortune Football Academy of Oshodi are the new champions of the 7th edition of the JOF U-13 Cup Football Tournament after defeating FC VI-Foot Football Academy of Ijora 3-1 on penalties in a gripping final played at the University of Lagos Sports Centre on Sunday.
A heavy downpour that left the pitch waterlogged did little to dampen the enthusiasm or determination of the young footballers, who thrilled spectators and an array of distinguished guests with their skill, resilience and passion. After an evenly contested encounter ended goalless in regulation time, Fortune FA held their nerve in the penalty shootout to lift the coveted trophy.
The annual tournament, sponsored by JOF Nigeria Limited and organised by the Lagos State Grassroots Football Association, once again underscored the company’s unwavering commitment to discovering and nurturing the next generation of football talents in Nigeria.
To reward excellence and encourage young players to pursue their dreams, JOF Nigeria Limited presented cash prizes to the four top-performing teams. Champions Fortune FA received ₦750,000, while runners-up FC VI-Foot earned ₦500,000. Soccer City Football Academy of Iwaya claimed third place after edging Ultimate Football Academy 1-0 to receive ₦350,000, while Ultimate FA went home with ₦250,000.
Individual brilliance was equally recognised during the closing ceremony. Okoroma Destiny of FC VI-Foot emerged as the tournament’s highest goal scorer.
Odesola Odunayo of Fortune FA was named the Most Valuable Player, while Fortune FA goalkeeper Alabi Faruk was honoured as the Best Goalkeeper.
Speaking at the grand finale, Chairman of JOF Nigeria Limited, Mr. Segun Olugboyegun, said the company’s continued investment in the competition reflects its conviction that grassroots football remains one of the most effective pathways for developing future champions.
“Our young footballers have the potential to become world champions someday,” he said. “Through the JOF U-13 Cup, we are investing in their future by providing a structured and organised platform where they can develop their talents, build discipline and gain the confidence to pursue their dreams.”
He commended all the participating teams for the discipline, determination and quality of football displayed throughout the tournament, noting that the competition continues to reveal the abundance of young football talents across Lagos State.
“I am delighted by the performances we witnessed throughout this edition. These young boys played with passion, commitment and remarkable discipline. They demonstrated not only their football abilities but also the values that sport teaches, including teamwork, perseverance and respect.”
Olugboyegun also expressed appreciation to the coaches, parents and the Lagos State Grassroots Football Association for their dedication to youth development and for providing an enabling environment for the players to flourish.
He called on corporate organisations, financial institutions, insurers and other stakeholders to support grassroots sports initiatives, stressing that investing in young people is an investment in Nigeria’s future.
“This tournament is bigger than JOF Nigeria Limited. It is about creating opportunities for young Nigerians to discover their potential and become responsible leaders on and off the field. We invite more organisations to join us in building a brighter future through sports.”
Reaffirming the company’s long-term commitment, he described the JOF U-13 Cup as a legacy project that will continue to provide opportunities for aspiring footballers and contribute to the development of grassroots football in the country.
Despite the inclement weather, the closing ceremony attracted an impressive gathering of business leaders, government officials and sports stakeholders. Among those in attendance were the Chairman of JOF Nigeria Limited, Mr. Segun Olugboyegun, and his wife; former Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. and Mrs. Demola Odeyemi; the Managing Director of Optimus Bank; the Managing Director of JOF Nigeria Limited, Ms. Heather Frankle; Mrs. Chioma Udu of Guaranty Trust Bank; Captain Femi Ibitoye; Hon. Olumide Atungbayila of the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning; and several other prominent guests.
With another successful edition concluded, the JOF U-13 Cup has further strengthened its reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading grassroots football competitions, offering a platform where young talents can develop their abilities, compete at a high level and take the first steps towards fulfilling their football dreams.
