Event Highlights
The NAFA U-13 Co-Ed Flag Football National Tournament Invitational (2nd Edition) delivered an unforgettable experience as young talents gathered in Lagos for a showcase of skill, teamwork, and resilience.
The Tournament took place on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan Stadium (Victoria Island). The tournament brought together the brightest young athletes in flag football from across Nigeria.
Teams who participated
This year’s edition featured 13 schools, which were:
- Lagos: Greensprings School (Lekki), Oshodi High School, Baptist Academy (Obanikoro), Ikeja Grammar School, Reagan Memorial Baptist School (Yaba), Army Cantonment Secondary School (Ojo), Vetland Grammar School (Agege), Olomu High School (Ajah), Amuwo Odofin Community Secondary School (Ojo), and Relentless Academy (Iba).
- Ilorin: Apata Ajele Community Secondary School.
- Ibadan: Bishop Phillips Academy and Ojoo High School.
From the very first whistle, it was clear that the competition would be intense. Each team came prepared, representing not just their schools but their communities and the growing culture of flag football in Nigeria.
Through the Rain, the Energy Never Dropped
Despite challenging weather conditions, the energy never dropped. The rain only added to the drama, as players pushed through slippery conditions with determination and grit.
Every offensive drive toward the end zone sparked loud reactions from spectators, creating an electric atmosphere that carried throughout the tournament.
Road to the Final
The semi-finals set the tone for an exciting finale:
- Ikeja Grammar School dominated their match with a strong 14–0 victory over CNS FSP Academy.
- Oshodi Junior High School edged past Patageli Community Secondary School in a tightly contested 7–6 clash.
These results set up a thrilling final between two determined teams.
The Grand Finale
The final match was nothing short of dramatic.
Ikeja Grammar School staged a late comeback, leveling the game at 6–6 with less than a minute to play, setting the stage for a tense finish.
However, Oshodi Junior High School held their nerve and pushed through to secure a 12–8 victory, emerging as champions once again.
Their performance showed not just skill, but composure under pressure – hallmarks of true champions.
Voices from the Game
The emotions after the final whistle captured the spirit of the tournament:
- From the Champions (Oshodi JHS):
“We are very happy. We came to show that we are the champions. We used every opportunity to attack and it worked for us.” - From Ikeja Grammar School:
“We feel bad, but we’ll come back stronger. Next time, we’ll train harder and do better.”
These moments reflect the deeper value of the tournament building resilience, discipline, and growth.
Winners & Final Standings
- 1st Place: Oshodi Junior High School
- 2nd Place: Ikeja Grammar School
- 3rd Place: Akwata Adjale (Ilorin) – defeated CNS FSP Academy 8–0
Beyond the Game: Building the Future
and not just a competition.
Flag football continues to grow in Nigeria, offering young athletes a platform to develop confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills.
With past winners representing Nigeria internationally, this tournament remains a pathway to global opportunities for these young stars.
What’s Next
The 2nd edition may have come to an end, but the journey is far from over.
This year’s tournament isn’t just about who won; it’s about what comes next. The champions, Oshodi Junior High School, have earned the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the maiden NFL FLAG U-13 African Championship in South Africa. It is a huge step, not just for the team, but for the growth of flag football in Nigeria.
If this year showed us anything, it’s that the future of flag football in Nigeria is incredibly bright. And if you missed this edition, consider this your sign you don’t want to miss the next one.
Acknowledgements
This event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our incredible partners and sponsors:
Browns Nigeria, IFAF, NFL Flag, NSSFFL, FAN Africa, Lagos State Office of Works, Zibwe, News Central, and NSSF.
Thank you for supporting the growth of youth sports and helping shape the next generation of athletes.