Spire 5-Aside Unveils Roadmap for New Season, Expands Player Empowerment
Organisers of the Spire 5-Aside tournament have unveiled the roadmap for the new season, with a strong focus on expanding opportunities for players beyond the pitch.
According to the organisers, teams seeking to compete must be affiliated with the Lagos State Football Association through their respective Divisional Football Associations. Registration for the tournament opens on Wednesday, February 18, via the official website, www.spires5aside.ng.
In a major policy shift, age restrictions have been lifted. Previously limited to players aged 19 and above, the competition will now allow broader participation.
Organisers also confirmed that the Tech-Meet-Sports initiative, introduced in 2025, will continue this season. The programme partners tech professionals with players to provide training in digital and emerging skills.
Participants will receive exposure to areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, coding, and graphic design. The initiative aims to equip players with practical skills to support life beyond football.
The initiator of the tournament, Bankole Alibay, spoke virtually from the United States during the unveiling. He expressed confidence that the upcoming edition would surpass previous seasons.
“We are excited about every edition of the tournament. Season 3 will exceed what we have achieved in the past,” he said.
White Tigers, a Lagos Island-based club, won the 2025 edition and went home with a N5m prize. Organisers say preparations are in top gear to deliver a more competitive and impactful season.
The tournament continues to position itself as a platform that blends sports development with youth empowerment in Lagos.
