The Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), Mr. Lekan Fatodu, has described football as a powerful tool for youth engagement, capable of channeling their energy and creativity into productive and positive pursuits.
EpeInsights reports that Fatodu stated this during the kickoff of the 4th edition of the Afinni Unity Cup 2025, tagged “The Price Before the Prize,” held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.
Commending the initiative, Fatodu noted that community-based sporting events like the Afinni Unity Cup play a crucial role in redirecting young people’s focus, promoting peace, and discouraging social vices.
“This is about going back to the community. Sports unite people, foster peace, and encourage more decent lifestyles. It has gone beyond a hobby — sports have become a global currency, and we must tap into its power,” he said.
The competition, organized by Honourable Sulaimon Olarenwaju Afinni, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Lagos Island Constituency, began as a small seven-a-side tournament before expanding into an 11-a-side championship.
Afinni explained that the Unity Cup serves as a talent discovery platform, connecting promising players with local and international scouts and offering young athletes the opportunity to build careers in professional football.
This year’s edition features 16 teams representing various communities across Lagos Island.
The 2025 opening match produced an early upset as defending champions Ricca/Odunfa were eliminated after losing on penalties to Pike/Forsythe.
In other results, Ita Faji/Evans defeated Tinubu/Luther 3–0, Ebute Elefun/Sura recorded a 2–0 victory over Anikantamo/Swamp, while Massey/Branco thrashed Phase III & IV by 4–0.
The tournament continues with more round-of-16 fixtures on Tuesday, leading up to the grand finale scheduled for Sunday, November 9.
