The final whistle of the first season of the Afijio Teens Football League, ATFL, was echoed with cheers and renewed hope as Madux Vision FC emerged champion of the league that symbolizes more than just football but represents a future being shaped for Afijio’s youth.
An initiative of the Seyi Adisa Development Initiative (SADI), the ATFL was born out of a vision to bridge the gap between raw talent and real opportunity as young players from communities across Afijio Local Government showcased grit, skill, and teamwork.
The final match drew hundreds of fans, community leaders, parents and football enthusiasts with the event showcasing not only sporting excellence but the vibrancy, unity, and raw talent within Afijio.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Program Manager at SADI, AdelayoAdeyemo expressed deep appreciation to the parents of the players for trusting the initiative and allowing their children to participate.
She also thanked the wider Afijio community for their continued support and encouragement towards to league which play for nearly six months.
In a remark, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the league, Mr. Ola Wasiu Jimoh reflected on the journey and revealed what lies ahead: “We’re not stopping here. We intend to expose these boys to the wider world of football—within and beyond Nigeria. Plans are underway for national tours, while the ATFL Academy continues to nurture players with the potential to become the next Victor Osimhen or Lionel Messi.”
He further explained that the league began with scouting trials coordinated with officials from the Oyo State Zonal Football Association, leading to the formation of four teams: 7-Eleven FC, Moballers UTD, Kaizen FC, and Madux Vision FC.
Reacting, founder of SADI Nigeria, Hon. Seyi Adisa emphasized that the initiative is not just about football but an opportunity to empower the youth with leadership skills.
He said “This first season of the Afijio Teens Football League would not have been possible without the remarkable support of our sponsors, whose generosity fueled the dreams of dozens of young athletes Madux Vision FC championed by Emmanuel Maduka, not only took home the trophy but also set a standard for excellence and team spirit. Moballers United powered by the steadfast commitment of our sponsor, Tunde Adisa,. Kaizen FC sponsored by Tom Brown, and 7-Eleven FC, led by Hon. Seyi Adisa, all brought the entire league to life and sustainability.. We celebrate and deeply appreciate each sponsor for investing in the potential of the youth and helping us turn football into a tool for development.”
“These boys were also trained in leadership through the John Maxwell Youth Leadership Program. Beyond weekly refreshments, health insurance, and first aid support, we also provided a standard pitch—even though it now needs renovation, which we will address before Season 2 begins.”
According to Hon Adisa, the league, though started as a grassroots movement has started attracting international attention, adding that it is an opportunity of “building a future where our youth are empowered to thrive”.
“We are proud of every player, coach, and volunteer who made this season a success.”
Hon. Adisa announced plans for more teams, more coaches, more trials, and a bigger pitch for football in the next season.
He congratulated Madux Vision FC for lifting the coveted ATFL trophy amid cheers, with individual awards presented for Best Player, Highest goal scorer, Best Goalkeeper. Best midfielder among others.
The final match was graced by key figures in the football officiating community, including Mrs. OmofoyeOlawunmi, Vice Chairman of the Referees Society; Mr. Olajide Abiodun, Vice Chairman, Atiba Football Referee Society; Mr. Ajayi Adekunle, Chairman, Atiba Referee Society; and AlhajiAlaanu Rahman, Chairman, Ojongbolu among others.
