Sunday Ehigiator

The 7th edition of the Cohesion Football Tournament has officially kicked off following the ceremonial draw held recently at the E-Centre, Yaba, Lagos. The draw event attracted coaches, team representatives, community leaders, media partners, and volunteers, setting the stage for what organisers say will be the most competitive season yet.

This year’s tournament will feature 30 Under-15 boys’ teams, 10 Under-13 boys’ teams, and eight female teams, with matches scheduled for Wednesday, December 17, and Thursday, December 18, 2025. 

Speaking at the event, the convener of the tournament, Damilare Obagbemi, reflected on the tournament’s growth and the impact it continues to make.

“With every edition, we see more talent, more hope, and more communities believing in the power of football to change lives. We remain committed to giving these young athletes a platform to shine, grow, and dream bigger.”

Obagbemi added that the initiative has evolved significantly since its inception in 2019.

“What started as a simple initiative has grown into one of the major youth tournaments in the state; one that transcends the beautiful game to build character, unity, and opportunity. We can’t wait to see the excitement and passion light up the field once again,” he said.

The Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Mr Dotun Coker, also commended the organisers.

“We are excited to see an event focused on discovering and developing young talents, as this aligns deeply with our commitment to youth growth and empowerment. You can count on our continued support for your tournament,” he said.

A major highlight of the draw event was the presentation of prizes to the winners of the maiden Cohesion Challenge Football Game Show. Adegbaju Samuel emerged champion and received ₦250,000, while Timileyin Awokoya came second and received ₦150,000, adding excitement to the ceremony.

Since its debut in December 2019 with only 12 teams from Mushin and Surulere LGAs, the tournament has expanded steadily. By the 5th edition in 2023, participation had grown to 42 teams, including the introduction of 10 female teams. The 6th edition in 2024 featured 44 teams, reinforcing the organisers’ commitment to gender inclusion and youth empowerment.

This year, the competition will feature 48 teams, including eight female teams, drawn from communities across Lagos and Ogun States. The draw represents both the symbolic start of the new season and a reaffirmation of the tournament’s mission to provide underserved grassroots teams with a structured platform to harness talent, build character, and instil values such as teamwork, discipline, and leadership.

The seventh edition is supported by Viva, Firewood Jollof Rice, UAC Foods, DiosDelite, Beloxxi Biscuit, Ziba Beach Resort, and the Harrison Obiefule Foundation.