The Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman’s Cup has said the tournament will commence in October this year.
The LOC chairman, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, who also serves as Chairman of Conference 57, told newsmen in Lagos that the All Progressives Congress Lagos State Chapter Chairman’s Football Cup is a key project towards actualising President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, the tournament will ensure that the talents in the youth community are harnessed for nation-building.
Olowa added that the U 20 players tournament, which targeted to engage five million young Nigerians in Lagos State, was conceived in support of Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, the Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State Chapter.
‘’It is designed as a community league focusing on talent discovery. It seeks to engage young people in a constructive activity capable of opening doors to improved living standards while nurturing their dreams in sports.
“Matches will be played at the ward level in Lagos State, 57 Local Councils from where the finalists will emerge,” he added.
He expressed confidence that this platform will expose many young talents to opportunities that can shape their future and careers.
While stating that this football tournament is strictly apolitical and carries no political colouration, the organisers say it will provide an opportunity to drive youth awareness on the importance of registering for and obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to participate actively in future elections.
“In this regard, efforts are ongoing to liaise with relevant authorities to establish a PVC registration point at the tournament venue for easy access.
“Furthermore, this initiative is being implemented in collaboration with a wide range of private sector partners and football administration bodies, including the federal government football agency, Lagos State Ministry of Youths and Social Development and other relevant football governing institutions. Their technical and professional support will ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament.
The Secretary of APC in Lagos State, Hon. Adedola Jokomba, said, ‘’The tournament will be officially unveiled at the APC Lagos State Chapter Secretariat Acme, Ikeja, Lagos, in October 2025. Where Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is expected to be the Chief Host and all other State Legislatures and Executives,’’
Jokomba said the tournament would reduce crime, empower and expose the youth to international communities.
