By Adeola Badru 

A 16-team grassroots football competition organised by Nigerian travel brand The9jaboy is set to kick off tomorrow (Wednesday) in Lagos, as part of wider efforts to identify emerging talent and promote youth development.

The tournament, scheduled to run from Wednesday, May 13 to Friday, May 17, 2026, is an initiative spearheaded by popular travel creator and media personality McDolly Ogundana, widely known as The9jaboy.

In a statement issued by the organisers in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Tuesday, it was stated that, “The competition is designed to provide opportunities for young footballers to showcase their talents while encouraging discipline, community engagement, and positive youth participation.”

Ahead of the kickoff, the organisers said the initiative reflected the brand’s commitment to investing in grassroots development beyond digital content creation and travel advocacy.

They further noted that the tournament would bring together football enthusiasts, community leaders, and residents, particularly from Ebute Metta in Lagos State, where the founder originates from.

The9jaboy has gained significant recognition for documenting African travel experiences and promoting global mobility for Nigerians and Africans through digital storytelling, documentaries, and travel-focused content.

Ogundana, the brand founder, has visited over 129 countries and has built a global following by sharing narratives centred on visa challenges, border experiences, and opportunities available to African travellers.

Organisers added that, “The football tournament formed part of the company’s broader community development projects aimed at empowering young people and creating platforms for emerging talents.“

“This initiative is beyond football. It is about creating opportunities, inspiring young people, and showing that talent from the grassroots deserves visibility and support.”

They further disclosed that the brand has a series of major projects planned for 2026, including a West African overland expedition, a Greenland documentary project, and the publication of a book capturing lessons from travels across more than 129 countries.

“The tournament is expected to attract football enthusiasts and supporters from different parts of Lagos during the five-day competition,” he added.

The competition, which made its debut last year in Lagos State, was attended by football enthusiasts from across Nigeria.