Sporting Lagos, a Nigeria National League side, will be making a unique appearance in the inaugural Lagos Liga competition, scheduled to take place in the commercial city from December 6th to 27th, 2024.
The club has announced that they will be fielding a team composed of their own fans and employees, aiming to embody a true community-driven approach.
Lagos Liga made the announcement on X, welcoming Sporting Lagos FC, owned by Shola Akinlade and Fola Olatunji David. The platform highlighted the unique twist: “We welcome Sporting Lagos FC, owned by Shola Akinlade (Nigerian entrepreneur) and Fola Olatunji David (business adviser and strategy consultant for Africa-focused startups). @shollsman, @folasanwo.
“Here’s a unique twist! Sporting Lagos FC’s team will comprise fans & employees of the parent club, making it a true community-driven club. If Shola Akinlade and Fola Olatunji David bring in their expertise as expressed in other fields, then the pitch will literally be a playground for this team.”
This move adds excitement to the competition, particularly considering Sporting Lagos’ recent relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League. As the most high-profile team to join the startup mini-football tournament, they bring significant attention to the event.
Lagos Liga is a private, high-stakes 7-a-side football league featuring 16 clubs of non-professional and former football players from around the world. The winner will receive a substantial prize of N50 million naira and a trophy. Organizers aim to establish the league as one of Africa’s most thrilling private leagues.
The competition is set to be a vibrant blend of sports and entertainment, with a lively atmosphere filled with fun and games. A diverse range of influential young Nigerians, including music moguls Don Jazzy and Davido, former Big Brother Naija housemate Tacha, and real estate entrepreneur Suraj Oyewale (Sir Jarus), own the teams participating in this exciting event.
