The Nigeria Football Coaches Association, Ogun State Chapter, Egba Zone, has officially announced the launch of the Egba Football League, set to take place from February 11 to 23, 2025, in Wasinmi, Ewekoro Local Government Area, Ogun State.
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Speaking at a press conference in Wasinmi, Victor Agbagu, head coach of Chosen Generation Football Club and representative of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), described the tournament as a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bridging the gap between grassroots football and professional opportunities.
“We are taking it from the local level to the zonal and eventually the state level. This is the first of its kind, and we are committed to making it a success,” Agbagu emphasized.
Coaches Leading the Charge for Grassroots Development
Addressing concerns about coaches organizing the competition, Agbagu reaffirmed that it aligns with their responsibilities. He explained that many grassroots coaches are now actively involved in club administration, ensuring that young talents get the exposure they need.
“Some might ask why coaches are organizing a football league, but it is our responsibility. Many of us are not just trainers; we also run clubs and manage young players. Without proper competitions, our work would be in vain.”
Youth Development and Female Inclusion
The competition, which began its preliminary matches in September 2024, saw all six local governments in Egba complete their qualifiers by December. The tournament features various age categories, including:
Under-10, Under-13, and Under-15
Free-age category (which includes players under 17)
Female teams
Explaining the absence of an Under-17 category, Agbagu clarified that many players in the free-age category fall within that age range, reducing the need for an additional division and avoiding potential age-screening controversies.
“Football is not just for males; we must also provide opportunities for female players to shine,” he added.
Ewekoro Chosen as Host Due to Strong Infrastructure
Following deliberations, Ewekoro Local Government was selected as the host, with Wasinmi chosen due to its existing sports facilities and experience in hosting events like the Wasinmi Summer Soccer Championship.
The region offers ten quality pitches, including a turf field, making it an ideal location for the tournament.
Tournament Format and Match Schedule
A total of 66 teams will compete across different categories:
24 teams in the free-age category
12 teams each in the Under-10, Under-13, and Under-15 categories
The group-stage format for the free-age category consists of eight groups of three teams, while the younger categories have four groups of three teams each. The top two teams from each group will proceed to the knockout stages.
Match Venues:
Segun Odegbami International College and Sports Academy
United Comprehensive High School, Wasinmi
Baptist Primary School Field (standby venue for underage games)
Match Schedule:
Morning games at 9:00 AM (Segun Odegbami Field)
Evening games at 3:00 PM (United Comprehensive High School)
Final match: February 23, 2025
Agbagu further explained that the free-age category will follow standard football rules, while underage matches will have modified formats to suit younger players.
Scouting and Data Analytics: A Pathway to Professional Football
One of the standout features of this tournament is its focus on talent scouting and data analysis.
“It’s not just about playing; we will ensure that matches are live-streamed for scouts within and outside Nigeria,” Agbagu revealed. “Even if just one or two players secure professional opportunities, we will consider this tournament a success.”
To enhance talent identification, the organizers will integrate platforms like Sofascore, Team Stats, and AfriScout to track player performance in real-time.
“Videos alone don’t sell players—data does. By using these platforms, we can provide scouts with detailed player statistics, just like Livescore,” he added.
The priority for in-depth data analysis will be given to teams that reach the quarter-final stage, though highlights from earlier matches will also be made available.
Economic and Social Impact on Wasinmi Community
Beyond football, the Egba Football League is expected to bring economic benefits to Wasinmi and surrounding areas.
With 66 teams participating, each bringing at least 25 players, the tournament will attract over 1,000 participants, creating business opportunities for local vendors, hotels, and transport services.
“Wherever a football competition takes place, business thrives. This event will benefit local traders and service providers, ensuring economic growth,” Agbagu assured.
Security measures are also in place, with the organizers collaborating with local security agencies to maintain a safe environment for all participants and spectators.
A Stepping Stone to State and National Recognition
The Egba Football League is part of a broader state-wide initiative, with Ijebu and Remo also hosting similar tournaments. Finalists from each zone will advance to the state level, providing young footballers with a clear pathway to national recognition.
“This league is not a one-time event—it is part of Ogun State’s long-term football development program,” Agbagu stated. “We aim to produce players who can represent the state and Nigeria on the international stage.”
In past years, players from Ogun State have been selected for the Nigeria U-15 Future Eagles team, with some female players also making it to the national U-17 team.
Community Engagement and Final Preparations
With the tournament fast approaching, organizers are intensifying awareness campaigns through traditional media, radio shows, and online platforms to engage the local community.
“We are ensuring that the entire Wasinmi community is informed and involved,” Agbagu concluded. “With the help of media outlets and community leaders, we are spreading the word about this historic event.”
The Egba Football League 2025 promises to be an exciting and impactful tournament, setting the stage for Ogun State’s next generation of football stars.
