Lagos FA Cup Unveils New Trophy

By Akeem Busari

The Lagos FA Cup, formerly known as the Lagos War Memorial Cup since 1918, is Nigeria’s oldest football competition and serves as the official qualifying tournament for the national Federation Cup.

This historic and iconic football platform—widely regarded as a proving ground for both grassroots and professional talents—now proudly unveils a newly designed trophy inspired by the revered Eyo Masquerade, a timeless symbol of Lagos heritage, culture, and identity.

In keeping with long-standing tradition, the final matches of the Lagos FA Cup will continue to be staged at the historic Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

In preserving the prestige and legacy of the competition, the Lagos State Football Association commenced the production of two trophy replicas in September 2025:

• A 3-foot Giant Trophy, funded by 54footballx, to be formally presented to His Excellency, Governor Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu, through the Office of the Director-General for Sports. This trophy will remain permanently in the custody of the highest office of Lagos State.

• A 1.5-foot Trophy, to be presented annually to the competition winner. In line with established football tradition, this trophy shall be returned to the Lagos State Football Association after eight (8) weeks.

This initiative reinforces the rich heritage of the Lagos FA Cup while celebrating Lagos State’s enduring leadership, cultural pride, and unwavering commitment to football development.

In his remarks, the Director-General, Lagos State Sports, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, commended the proactiveness of the Lagos State Football Association, describing the initiative as the kind of innovation expected of all Sports Associations in Lagos State.