Sixteen teams compete in the The9jaboy grassroots football tournament

A grassroots football tournament featuring 16 teams, organized by the Nigerian travel brand The9jaboy, will kick off on Wednesday in Lagos as part of a drive to uncover young talent and foster youth development.

The competition will run from Wednesday, May 13 to Sunday, May 17, 2026, and is an initiative of well‑known travel creator and media personality McDolly Ogundana, who is popularly called The9jaboy.

In a statement issued from Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, on Tuesday, the organisers said, “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 opening match, organisers noted that the initiative reflects the brand’s commitment to invest in grassroots development beyond its digital content creation and travel advocacy.

They added that the tournament will bring together football enthusiasts, community leaders and local residents, especially those from Ebute Metta in Lagos, the founder’s hometown.

The9jaboy has become popular for documenting African travel experiences and promoting global mobility for Nigerians and Africans via digital storytelling, documentaries and travel‑related content.

Founder Ogundana, who has visited more than 129 countries, has built a worldwide audience by sharing stories focused on visa challenges, border experiences and opportunities for African travelers.

The organisers stated, “The football tournament forms part of the company’s broader community‑development projects aimed at empowering young people and creating platforms for emerging talent.

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

The organisers also disclosed that the brand has scheduled additional major projects for 2026, such as a West African overland expedition, a Greenland documentary