A new inter-secondary school football competition has been officially launched in Idiroko, aiming to steer youth away from the dangers of border smuggling through the power of sports.
According to a press release issued on Tuesday by Chado Zakari, Deputy Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer, Ogun I Area Command, Idiroko, the initiative, in conjunction with Jonnyyeko College of Health Science and Technology, organised as a core Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) drive, seeks to engage young minds productively, foster community spirit, and highlight sustainable career paths outside of illicit border trade.
Idiroko, a strategic border location, has historically exposed vulnerable youth to the temptations of smuggling. This tournament provides a constructive alternative, channelling students’ energy into teamwork, discipline, and healthy competition.
Declaring the competition open, the Ag. Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Command *Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni* said smuggling robs our youth of their future. By sponsoring this competition, we aren’t just playing football; we are providing a platform for advocacy, teaching life skills, and showing these students that their potential extends far beyond the border tracks.
Afeni highlighted that the tournament aims to nurture young talent early, inspiring them to pursue football as a lucrative career while leveraging sports to combat smuggling.
The tournament features twelve (12) teams from secondary schools across the local government, engaging hundreds of students both on the pitch and in the stands.
Educational authorities, Youth Associations and community leaders have rallied behind the tournament, praising it as a timely intervention to keep students in the classroom and off the smuggling routes.
Grand prizes, including educational materials and cash, will be awarded to the winning institutions and outstanding players.
The competition kicked off on 13 July 2026 at Iko Gate Grammar School, Idiroko, and is set to conclude with a grand finale on 24 July 2026.