Lagos MiniFootball League to serve as talent pool for national teams

Posted : 08 June 2026

The meeting focused on final preparations for the league, which will feature 20 men's teams and a separate women's competition ahead of the 2026 Africa MiniFootball Confederation (AMC) Women's Nations Cup scheduled to hold in Cameroon.

According to Datti, the Lagos MiniFootball League is expected to become a sustainable competition capable of producing players for the country's national teams.

"We want the Lagos MiniFootball League to stand, function effectively and remain sustainable just like the Nigeria Premier Football League and the Nigeria National League," Datti stated.

He praised Hon. Obasa for his commitment to the growth of the sport through the construction of two MiniFootball facilities, describing the infrastructure as a major boost for grassroots development.

The NMA president further noted that the competition would provide a strong platform for identifying players who could represent Nigeria at international MiniFootball tournaments, including the upcoming AMC Women's Nations Cup.

Speaking during the meeting, Hon. Obasa highlighted the importance of MiniFootball in player development, noting that the game is already familiar to many Nigerians through informal five-a-side matches played across communities.

He explained that the smaller playing area helps improve players' technical abilities, decision-making, fitness levels and overall understanding of the game.

Obasa also stressed the need for strong media involvement to ensure the league reaches a wider audience and attracts more participants, particularly football academies across Lagos State.

To achieve this objective, Cloud Sports has been engaged to broadcast and promote the competition.

The Agege council chairman commended the media outfit for its successful coverage of previous Lagos football competitions and expressed confidence that similar exposure would elevate the profile of MiniFootball.

Responding, Cloud Sports CEO Sheriff Tajudeen reaffirmed his organisation's commitment to showcasing the league and promoting African sporting talents to a global audience.

"We are here for it. We are advocates of African sports and ensuring the world appreciates our talents. The infrastructure is already in place and that is the foundation. The talent is there; what remains is proper organisation, management and visibility," Tajudeen said.

The Lagos MiniFootball League is expected to officially commence on July 31, with stakeholders optimistic that it will become a model competition for the growth of MiniFootball in Nigeria.

This inaugural tournament marks a crucial turning point for grassroots football administration within the state. By combining infrastructural development with structured media visibility, the competition establishes a sustainable pathway for discovering elite talents. The collaboration between local leadership and corporate sports media sets a solid foundation for the sport's long-term success.

Lagos MiniFootball League to serve as talent pool for national teams

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