Eyo meets football: Lagos FA blends culture, football with eyo-themed trophy reveal

• The Lagos State Football Association unveiled an Eyo-themed trophy for the 2026 Lagos State Challenge Cup
• The trophy draws inspiration from the iconic Eyo cultural tradition of Lagos
• The tournament is expected to boost participation and strengthen football development in Lagos with matches set to begin Sunday across various centres in the state

The Lagos State Football Association has unveiled an Eyo masquerade-themed trophy for the 2026 Lagos State Challenge Cup, blending culture with sport as preparations for the grassroots tournament gather momentum.

The announcement was made during the official draw ceremony held at the National Stadium Surulere, where football stakeholders convened to mark the formal kickoff of the 2026 Lagos FA Cup.

According to a statement shared by the Lagos State Government, the event highlighted the intersection of culture and football, while strengthening collaboration among stakeholders committed to grassroots development across the state.

The association, under the leadership of its Chairman, Hajji Liameed Gafar, is spearheading renewed efforts to enhance the organisation and overall impact of the competition.

The 2026 edition is expected to draw broader participation and deepen engagement within the football community.

A key highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the culturally symbolic trophy, inspired by the iconic Eyo Festival.

The trophy, donated by 54Footballx, was presented by traditional rulers including the Oba of Isheri-Olofin Kingdom, Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello, and the Olu-iwa of Apapa, Abdul Moruf Oyekunle Oluwa.

The government described the trophy as a powerful representation of Lagos’ cultural identity and heritage, noting that it adds prestige to what is widely regarded as the state’s biggest football competition.

“The culturally symbolic trophy reflects the rich heritage of Lagos, while adding identity and prestige to the competition, widely regarded as the biggest football tournament in the state,” the statement read.

Speaking at the event, Gafar emphasised the broader significance of the tournament beyond football.

“This competition represents more than football; it reflects our culture, our unity, and our vision for the future of the game in Lagos.

“We are committed to delivering a well-organised tournament that will continue to discover talents and inspire the next generation,” he said.

The ceremony attracted a wide array of stakeholders, including former international footballers led by Waidi Akanni, alongside club owners, referees, administrators, media professionals, and government officials, all reaffirming their commitment to grassroots football development.

The Lagos FA and tournament sponsor, Cloud Sports, led by its founder and CEO, Dr Sheriff Tajudeen, expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their continued support.

Traditional rulers, facilitators of the media officers’ training seminar, LSFA Congress members, the Lagos State Referees Association, and elders-emeritus were also commended for their roles in strengthening football in the state.

A total of 77 teams have been confirmed for the competition.

To elevate the tournament, organisers have introduced incentives such as match balls, increased prize money, and global live streaming powered by Cloud Sports.

Matches are scheduled to commence on Sunday, March 29, across designated centres in Lagos, with expectations high that the competition will not only promote football excellence but also showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage and unity.