Lagos APC chairman’s Cup kicks off in October

By Lukman Olabiyi

The highly anticipated All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State Chairman’s Cup is set to commence in October 2025, according to the Local Organising Committee (LOC).

The grassroots football tournament, aimed at discovering and nurturing youth talent, will be held across all 57 local councils in the state.

Speaking to journalists in Lagos, LOC Chairman, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, who also chairs Conference 57, described the competition as a strategic initiative aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He emphasised that the tournament will serve as a platform to harness the potential of young Nigerians for national development.

Targeting U-20 players, the Chairman’s Cup is designed to engage over five million youths across Lagos State.

According to Olowa, the competition will begin at the ward level, with successful teams advancing to the local council and ultimately state finals.

“This is a community league with a strong focus on talent discovery. It offers young people a constructive outlet and a chance to pursue careers in sports, which could ultimately improve their standard of living,” Olowa said.

He also stressed that the tournament is strictly non-political.

However, the organisers see it as a valuable opportunity to educate young people about civic responsibility, particularly the importance of registering for and obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Added that plans are underway to set up PVC registration points at match venues in collaboration with relevant authorities.

He disclosed that the event is being organized in partnership with various private sector stakeholders, football governing bodies, the Federal Government’s football agency, and the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development.

Olowa noted that these collaborations would provide technical and professional support to ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament.

Secretary of the APC Lagos State Chapter, Hon. Adedola Jokomba, confirmed that the official unveiling of the tournament would take place in October 2025 at the APC State Secretariat in Acme, Ikeja.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is expected to serve as the Chief Host, alongside other state executives and lawmakers.

“This tournament will help reduce crime, empower our youth, and provide them with international exposure,” Jokomba added.