
The Ndigboamaka Progressive Markets Association, an umbrella body of Major Market Associations in Lagos, is set to host a football tournament for traders in a bid to enhance their fitness and well-being.
According to the group, it has decided to host the tournament to ensure traders take a break from the usual wheeling and dealing that come with their trade, but put on some jerseys, boots and gloves to display their talents on a football pitch.
The association in a programme released by its Secretary General, Comrade Chinedu Ukatu, who is also the Chairman of the organising committee, he assured that there is a beautiful plan of having the various markets in Lagos compete in the football tournament that will herald an annual fiesta where budding as well as old talents will be showcased.
Ukatu noted that the competition, which is called the National Grand Patron Unity Cup, is scheduled to kick off from the 9th of October at the Legacy pitch of the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos.
The competition is organised under the sponsorship of the National Grand patron of the association and Chairman United Nigeria Airline Limited, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, who will also be at the opening ceremony to cheer the teams.
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu is expected to grace the occasion to give the event the desired punch and relevance.
Out of the 58 major markets in the association, about 35 expressed interest and selected teams to participate in the tournament, but a final list of 16 teams have made the tournament proper.
There will be four matches per day, with the final coming up on the 19th of November, 2022.

The organisers have made adequate arrangements for security and an ambulance is always available to attend to the players and fans alike.