By Peace Udugba
Favour Comprehensive College has emerged champions of the maiden edition of the Afeni Inter-Secondary School Football Tournament, defeating rivals in an impressive campaign that culminated in the tournament’s final on Friday, July 24, 2026, in Idiroko, Ogun State.
The grassroots football competition, sponsored by the Acting Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Afeni, in partnership with Jonnyyeko College of Health Science and Technology, featured 12 secondary schools from border communities across the state.
Organisers said the tournament was conceived as part of the Command’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme aimed at engaging young people positively through sports, promoting education, fostering peaceful coexistence and discouraging youths from participating in cross-border smuggling and other illicit activities.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Afeni, said football provides an effective platform for mentoring young people, developing their talents and inspiring them to pursue opportunities beyond their immediate environment.
He noted that the tournament reflected the Command’s commitment to youth empowerment and community development, adding that sports remain a powerful tool for building discipline, teamwork and social cohesion.
The competition ran from July 13 to July 24, 2026, attracting hundreds of students who participated as players, match officials and supporters.
Educational stakeholders, youth organisations and community leaders across the Idiroko border corridor also supported the initiative, describing it as a valuable platform for promoting education and steering young people away from criminal activities.
At the end of the tournament, Favour Comprehensive College lifted the inaugural trophy, while winners and outstanding performers received cash prizes, educational materials and sports equipment.
Individual awards were also presented to exceptional players. Okanlawon Al-Amin of S.S. International School finished as the tournament’s highest goal scorer with four goals, Olawale Saoban of Favour Comprehensive College was named Best Goalkeeper, while Rigobert of Holy Childhood Academy won the Best Player award.
Organisers expressed optimism that the successful maiden edition would become an annual event, providing a sustainable platform for discovering young football talents while promoting peace, education and social development in border communities.
