Okunowo, Football Stars Set for Grand Finale of Victor Ikpeba 5-A-Side Challenge in Surulere

Former Barcelona defender Gbenga Okunowo will headline a star-studded gathering of ex-footballers, active players and celebrities as the 2026 Lagos edition of the Victor Ikpeba 5-A-Side Football Challenge reaches its climax on Friday in Surulere.

The grassroots football tournament, which has grown into one of the most anticipated community sporting events in Lagos, will conclude at the Community Centre on Fujah Street, with participating teams battling for honours and an enhanced prize pool.

Defending champions Achievers FC will be aiming to retain the title they won in 2025 after an impressive campaign that saw them overcome stiff competition from Gantos FC, Big John FC, LB United, Odogwu FC, Abe Igi FC, Rock Steady and Indomitable Lions.

The stakes have been raised this year, with the champions set to receive ₦500,000, a significant increase from the ₦300,000 awarded to last year’s winners. The runners-up will earn ₦250,000, while the third and fourth-placed teams will receive ₦150,000 and ₦100,000 respectively.

Organiser and former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, said the increase in prize money was aimed at motivating young players and strengthening the impact of the competition within the community.

“This is our contribution towards keeping young people positively engaged and away from negative influences on the streets,” Ikpeba said.

“We have increased the prize money to make the competition even more exciting. I believe this will add greater value to the tournament and encourage more participation.”

Ikpeba added that the tournament remains committed to providing a platform for talented grassroots footballers to showcase their abilities while fostering unity and healthy competition among youths.

Ahead of the grand finale, the venue has undergone extensive refurbishment, including repainting and upgrades designed to provide a festive atmosphere for players, officials and supporters.

The competition, now in its sixth edition, has become a fixture on the local football calendar and traditionally concludes on 12 June, which coincides with Ikpeba’s birthday.

The former Nigerian international has continued to use the tournament as a vehicle for youth development and community engagement, with the annual event attracting increasing attention from football enthusiasts across Lagos.

With eight teams from the Shitta, Akerele and Masha communities participating this year, organisers are expecting another thrilling finale as the battle for supremacy and the top prize reaches its conclusion.

All eyes will be on Fujah Street on Friday as grassroots football takes centre stage in a celebration of talent, community spirit and the enduring legacy of one of Nigeria’s most celebrated football icons.