The Executive Chairman of Lekki Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Engr. Rasaki Bamidele Kasali (MNSE, MNATE), has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth development as the Lekki Beach Kids Cup 2026 officially got underway at Awolowo Museum Beach, Lekki.
Epe Insights reports that Engr. Kasali led the opening ceremony of the grassroots football tournament, describing sports as a powerful platform for discovering young talents, promoting education and strengthening community unity across Lekki LCDA.
The colourful opening ceremony attracted pupils, parents, teachers, community leaders and football enthusiasts who gathered to witness the beginning of one of the council’s flagship youth sporting events.
Engr. Kasali said his administration remains committed to investing in programmes that empower young people through sports, education and meaningful community engagement.
According to the Chairman, grassroots football competitions provide children with opportunities to develop discipline, teamwork, confidence and leadership while showcasing their sporting abilities.
He explained that creating platforms for young athletes remains an important part of the council’s vision to nurture future champions capable of representing Lekki and Lagos State at higher levels of competition.
Kasali noted that sports continue to unite communities by bringing together children, families and residents in an atmosphere of healthy competition and mutual respect.
He reaffirmed the council’s resolve to sustain youth-focused initiatives that inspire excellence and encourage children to pursue their dreams through hard work and dedication.
The Chairman added that the Lekki Beach Kids Cup is more than a football competition, describing it as an investment in the future of young people and the continued growth of grassroots sports within the LCDA.
He encouraged participating schools to embrace the values of fair play, discipline and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
The opening fixture featured Community Primary School (CPS) Folu against Local Government Primary School, Ilege, in an entertaining contest that showcased the enthusiasm and talent of the young footballers.
CPS Folu delivered an outstanding performance, defeating LG Primary School, Ilege 5-0 to become the first team to record a victory in the 2026 edition of the competition.
The emphatic result drew loud applause from spectators, who cheered the players throughout the match and celebrated the impressive display of skill and teamwork.
Parents and teachers praised the quality of football on display, describing the opening day as an exciting start to what promises to be a memorable tournament.
Community members also commended Engr. Kasali for sustaining initiatives that provide children with opportunities to develop their talents beyond the classroom.
The tournament was successfully organised through the collaborative efforts of the council’s sports and education departments, ensuring the smooth participation of schools and the successful delivery of the opening ceremony.
Sports stakeholders noted that competitions such as the Lekki Beach Kids Cup play an important role in identifying promising young footballers while encouraging physical fitness and positive social interaction.
Beyond the excitement of the matches, organisers said the tournament aims to build confidence, strengthen friendships and inspire participants to embrace excellence both on and off the field.
The opening day’s memorable moments reflected the growing enthusiasm for grassroots football across Lekki LCDA and reinforced the importance of sustained investment in youth development.
With the competition now officially underway, attention turns to the remaining fixtures as schools continue their quest for the championship title.
Engr. Kasali expressed confidence that the tournament will produce more thrilling matches while helping to discover the next generation of football stars. He reaffirmed that his administration will continue supporting initiatives that empower young people, promote community engagement and strengthen grassroots sports as a foundation for a brighter future in Lekki LCDA.
