Exictement as Varsity Football Academy Lifts JOF Kids Cup Trophy

At the University of Lagos Sports Centre on Sunday, it wasn’t just a football final—it was a celebration of dreams, hard work, and hope for a brighter future.

Amid cheers, music, and the glow of proud families, Varsity Football Academy from Lagos Island clinched the title at the 6th U-13 JOF Kids Cup, marking a major milestone in the lives of young footballers already dreaming of stardom.

Their journey to the championship was anything but easy. Facing fierce competition throughout the tournament, Varsity’s young talents held their nerve in the final against B. Unit FC from the Mainland. Just seconds into the game, fate smiled on them—a swift move into the box earned a penalty kick, coolly converted to secure a hard-fought 1–0 victory. That single goal was enough to crown them champions and carve their names into the growing history of the JOF Kids Cup.

The atmosphere was electric, with dignitaries from government, private sectors, and Nigerian football royalty in attendance. Legends like Waidi Akani, Friday Ekpo, Wasiu Ipaye, Godwin Okpara, and Franklin Howard watched on, praising the skills, energy, and sportsmanship of the young players.

Beyond the glory of lifting the trophy, Varsity Football Academy took home ₦750,000 and other gifts, thanks to the generous sponsorship of JOF Nigeria Limited. B. Unit, the gallant runners-up, received ₦500,000, while Strong Dove FC, who triumphed 3-1 over First Class Boys in the third-place match, earned ₦350,000. Fourth-place finishers were rewarded with ₦250,000.

Special awards highlighted individual brilliance too. Abdullahi Akinremi of Varsity Football Academy was named Most Valuable Player (MVP), Marvelous Gavor of B. Unit secured the Highest Goal Scorer prize with eight goals, and Varsity’s Alex Peter was recognized as the Best Goalkeeper. Each received ₦25,000 for their efforts.

Speaking after the final, Dr. Olusegun Olugboyegun, Chairman/CEO of JOF Nigeria Limited, praised the level of talent on display and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting grassroots football.

“The whole idea is to encourage young talents and give them hope. That’s what this is all about,” he said passionately.
“The excitement this competition generates shows what Nigerian youths are capable of achieving if given the right environment.”

Dr. Olugboyegun also revealed plans to expand the JOF Kids Cup beyond Lagos, offering more young players across the Southwest region a chance to shine.
“For the past six editions, we have seen how far we have been able to impact youngsters in Lagos State. This motivates us to take the tournament to the next level,” he explained.

Perhaps most touching is JOF Nigeria Limited’s initiative to select standout players for a “JOF All Stars” program. These selected kids will not only sharpen their football skills but also be taught life lessons, discipline, and values during special holiday camps.

“We teach them etiquette, morals, about God, and soccer too. We want them to grow not just as players, but as complete young individuals,” Dr. Olugboyegun added.

As the sun set on UNILAG’s sports complex and medals were placed around necks, the 6th JOF Kids Cup was much more than a tournament—it was a spark for dreams that could one day light up stadiums around the world.