The grand finale of the third edition of the Afinni Unity Cup took place on Sunday, November 10, 2024, drawing an impressive array of government officials, sports administrators, scouts, current and former footballers, and coaches. Held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, the tournament’s purpose was to promote peace and unity among communities within Lagos Island.
The tournament, which began on October 19 and concluded on November 10, featured 16 communities competing in football matches aimed at fostering unity among residents.
Defending champions, Ricca/Odunfa clinched their title once more, defeating Araromi 3-1 in a thrilling final match.
The Afinni Unity Cup final attracted several prominent figures, including Commisioner for Youth and Sports in Lagos, Honourable Mobolaji Ogunlende, Desmond Elliot, Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Surulere Constituency; Adeboye Adeyinka Anthony, Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Sports; Honourable Muibi Alade Folawiyo, Executive Chairman of Lagos Island East Local Council Development Area; Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor of Lagos State; Prince Fuad Oloto of Futol Homes; and Moshood Akinolu from the Lagos Island II Federal Constituency.
Notable football personalities graced the event as well, including former Nigeria internationals and coaches Fatai Amoo and Friday Ekpo, Nigerian internationals John Ogu and Aaron Samuel, and former Nigerian defender and ex-head of the Lagos State Football Association, Waheed Akanni.
Before kickoff, Nigerian Fuji superstar, KS1 Malaika entertained fans with a captivating musical performance, adding to the high-spirited atmosphere of the day. Following the match, former Lagos Island East Chairman Alhaji Muftau Olanrewaju Kadiku, also known as KDK, presented the trophy to the victorious Ricca/Odunfa team.
The tournament awarded cash prizes to the winners, runners-up, and third-place team, while individual awards were also presented for categories such as Highest Goal Scorer, Most Valuable Player, Best Defender, and Fair Play Team.
In an interview with AAN TV, Honourable Afinni, Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Lagos Island Constituency II and organizer of the Afinni Unity Cup, shared that the tournament was established to create connections between local communities and football academies.
Acknowledging that not everyone has the opportunity to pursue office work, he emphasized the importance of providing pathways for talented footballers. He also noted that previous editions of the tournament have led to players being scouted, joining the Nigeria Professional League, and even securing opportunities abroad.
Honourable Afinni concluded by expressing gratitude to the communities, sponsors, and supporters who have made the Afinni Unity Cup possible.
