By Olanrewaju Agiri
The grand finale of the Ex Ibadan Professional Footballers Association (EIPFA) statewide secondary school football tournament is scheduled to take place at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, between April 9 and 10, 2026.
The tournament, an initiative of EIPFA led by its head, Temitope Obideyi, has brought together young football talents from across Oyo State in what has been described as one of the most extensive grassroots football programs in the region. A total of 80 secondary schools participated in the competition, drawn from 10 zones across the state. These include three zones from Ibadan, two from Ogbomoso, and one each from Ibarapa, Irepo, Saki, Kajola, and Oyo.
The grassroots soccer tournament, which kicked off on February 25, 2026, was designed with the primary aim of discovering and nurturing the next generation of football champions. Over the course of the competition, 1,440 students showcased their skills, demonstrating the depth of talent present at the grassroots level.
Speaking on the initiative, EIPFA chairman Temitope Obideyi emphasized that the association was formed to promote sports development across Oyo State. He noted that the tournament is not just about competition, but also about creating opportunities for young athletes.
“At the end of the screening process, 90 outstanding players have been selected,” Obideyi said. “From this group, we will further identify the best 30 players who will receive support in both their education and football development.”
The upcoming final matches are expected to draw significant attention from football enthusiasts, scouts, and stakeholders in youth sports development, as the tournament reaches its climax.
With its focus on grassroots engagement and talent development, the EIPFA tournament continues to position itself as a vital platform for shaping the future of football in Oyo State and beyond.
