MTN Partners Eko International Cup To Uncover Next Generation African Football Talent

The stage is set for the 2025 Eko International Cup.

Organisers, sponsors, and football stakeholders gathered at Onikan Stadium for a pre-tournament press briefing on Sunday, July 13.

The week-long tournament, which runs until July 20, is shaping up to be a significant addition to Nigeria’s football calendar, with a focus on player development, tourism, and club exposure.

At the forefront of this year’s edition is a new partnership with MTN Nigeria, which joins as a major sponsor alongside other corporate supporters. Speaking at the event, Friday Okuwe, Senior Manager, Brand, Media, Sponsorship and Marketing at MTN, reaffirmed the brand’s deep-rooted commitment to the growth of Nigerian football, from the grassroots to the national stage.

“We’re not here just to brand a tournament. Football is a major part of who we are, from supporting the Super Eagles and Super Falcons to creating platforms that spotlight future stars. The Eko International Cup aligns with our long-term vision to grow the sport sustainably in Nigeria,” Okuwe stated.

The press conference, attended by local and international media, also featured remarks from Ifeanyi Ogbu, CEO of Ski-Hi Entertainment, convener of the tournament. He described the Eko International Cup as a project built to support football talent, enhance local sports infrastructure, and reinforce Lagos’ image as a hub for football tourism in Africa.

“We want to show the continent that Nigeria can host high-level tournaments. Our goal is not just to entertain but to build a legacy that supports young talent and energizes the football economy,” Ogbu said.

On questions about long-term commitment, the brand stated its interest in continuing support beyond this edition, in line with its wider football investment strategy.

Also in attendance was a representative from the Lagos State Referees Association, as well as the Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Dotun Coker, who pledged the state’s full support for the tournament. “This is a programme very dear to Mr. Governor, who has endorsed it. We expect lots of excitement and business tourism to take place within this facility. Rest assured that maximum security will be guaranteed for all guests, including fans, media and VIPs,” he said.

The fixtures and participating teams were officially unveiled at the briefing, with six clubs from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries expected to compete.

With anticipation growing, the 2025 Eko International Cup is set to deliver not just competitive football but also new opportunities for talent discovery, brand involvement, and audience engagement in Nigerian sport.