Kiddies Football Competition: How Apex Network is Building the Future of African Sports
Over two thrilling days of youth football action, the CitySports Africa Easter Cup 2025 ignited the spirit of Lagos. Bursting with talent, the city’s young footballers dazzled on the pitch, turning the much-anticipated tournament into a celebration of skill, passion, and unforgettable moments. Spectators from across the state gathered to witness the next generation of stars in action.
As the lead sponsor of this year’s competition, Apex Network—a trailblazer in digital wallet solutions—once again proved its deep commitment to community growth and youth empowerment. This vision aligns seamlessly with CitySports Africa’s mission to shape future champions, both in sports and in life. The partnership showcased how technology can be a powerful catalyst—not only in transforming youth sports—but also in nurturing a winning mindset for tomorrow’s leaders.
Mr Gbenga Ogunbiyi, the Head of Brands and Marketing for Apex, said:
"Today is not just about football—it's about community, growth, harnessing of talent, and giving every child a chance to shine."
This year's CitySports League hosted a competition featuring youth teams from Nigerian states and the neighbouring African country of Benin Republic in three age groups: U9, U12, and U15. In addition to the football matches played, there were other fun side events and community engagement, and it was a welcoming atmosphere for families, all of which helped attendees make unforgettable memories for the Easter holiday.
"CitySports Africa is dedicated to providing platforms for young athletes to develop, compete, and succeed both domestically and globally, and through the CitySports League, it continues to champion youth development through sports." Shola Opaleye, CitySports Africa CEO, said during the medal and award presentation.
Opaleye added that the company is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that every African child is given the right opportunity to showcase their talents and fulfil their dreams in life.
"In the past five years, we have been focusing on the right route to develop sports, leadership, and academic skills because these are the basic three skills every child needs to attain their potential as they grow up."
Addressing the participants at the end of the two-day event, Mr. Opaleye encouraged the kids to remain committed and dedicated to their goals in life. While doing that, they should ensure their education is of the utmost priority, citing the programme's successes in just a few years of inception.
"We have three success stories of students doing great in their craft after going through CitySports developmental programmes: Osaze, a 14-year-old footballer who is currently with Arsenal. Duke is doing well at Hull City U-19, while one of our products is in the Super Falconets," Shola Opaleye, CEO of City Sports Africa, said.
While chatting with the press, Oluwatosin Adefimilola, a representative of Apex Network, said:
"We don't just trade gift cards at Apex Network; we go above and beyond to nurture young talent by partnering with brands that share the same goals as ours."
The outcome of the competition is a testament to the fact that it's a goal that is worth continuing.
The foremost Sports Photojournalist, Mr Sulaiman Adebayo, popularly known as Pooja, representatives from Brilla FM, and the Nigeria Football Supporters Club Band were in attendance to cheer the team.
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Source: Legit.ng
