In what promises to be one of the most inspiring youth football events of 2025, 16 vibrant football teams have officially registered to participate in the Seyi Tinubu Citizens Cup Football Tournament, scheduled to take place from April 12 to 19 in Ilorin, Kwara State.
The announcement came during a well-attended press conference in Ilorin on Thursday, where Bello Olamilekan, head of the organizing committee, emphasized that the tournament is not just a competition — it is a revolution in motion.
“This is more than just football,” Bello declared. “This is about giving a voice to the youth. It’s a movement of ambition, leadership, and purpose. The young people of this nation are no longer waiting for change; they’re becoming the change.”
The tournament will feature elite youth teams including NA Royals, Skills FC, Morrow International FC, Ka’ah FC, FC Zeus, Alabama FA, Kwara Football Academy, Unity FA, Tsaragi Emirate FA, Eagle Stars FC, JAAD FA, AbraySports FA, D’Aztecs, La Planet FA, Asa United, and Legal Stars FC. The event is open to players aged 18 to 25 and is expected to draw attention from scouts and professional clubs across the country.
Aside from the competition, the tournament’s deeper mission is to inspire leadership, resilience, and discipline in young Nigerians through sport. Bello praised Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his tireless efforts in supporting youth empowerment through sports.
He also expressed deep appreciation for Seyi Tinubu, whose vision birthed the tournament. “Seyi Tinubu understands that football speaks a universal language — one of hope, unity, and dreams. He’s not just sponsoring a competition; he’s building a bridge between raw talent and real opportunity,” Bello stated.
Athletes have been encouraged to play not only to win but to learn life lessons that extend beyond the pitch. “This is about becoming champions in life, not just football,” Bello concluded.
The Seyi Tinubu Citizens Cup is set to be a defining moment for grassroots football and youth development in Nigeria, putting Ilorin on the map as a hub for emerging talent.
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Football Scouting Nigeria
Grassroots Soccer Nigeria
Ilorin Events
Kwara State Sports
Nigerian Football Tournaments
Seyi Tinubu Cup
Sports Empowerment
Youth Football Nigeria