The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is exploring a potential sporting partnership with Eko United Football Club, following a visit by the club’s leadership to the University on Friday, October 30, 2026.
The delegation, led by the club’s Director of Sports, Mr. Shogo Shodunke, included former Nigerian international and the Club’s current Head Coach, Mr. Oladunni Oyekale alongside members of the club’s technical team. The visitors were received in the Vice-Chancellor’s Boardroom, Senate House, by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Muyiwa Falaiye and Deputy Registrar (Vice-Chancellor’s Office), Mr. Akinwumi Abolade.
Facilitated by Mr. Jorge Etibeng, Managing Director of Builder’s Construction, the private firm managing the University’s sporting facilities, the visit provided an opportunity for Eko United to present its vision and explore areas of possible collaboration with the University.
Speaking on the proposed partnership, Mr. Shodunke described the University as an institution of international standing whose location, youthful population and established sporting culture make it an attractive partner for the club. He explained that Eko United is seeking to build a different relationship with its host community through a football development structure that connects grassroots talent with opportunities in professional football.
One of the major proposals put forward by the club is the introduction of an inter-faculty football competition, which could be named after the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS.
According to Mr. Shodunke, the competition would provide a platform for identifying and nurturing promising student footballers while creating a sporting tradition that could outlive the tenure of the current Vice-Chancellor.The proposal also reflects the club’s broader interest in building a lasting connection with the University’s student population.
He explained that Eko United’s choice of UNILAG was informed by the opportunity to engage young people and develop a football identity rooted in the community, noting that this approach would distinguish the club from other Lagos-based sides.
Beyond the proposed competition, the club also expressed interest in exploring academic and technical collaborations with relevant faculties, particularly in coaching education and sports development. It also indicated its willingness to use the University’s sporting facilities for training sessions and home matches.
In response, Professor Falaiye welcomed the proposal and highlighted the University’s experience in hosting major sporting competitions. He recalled events such as Nigeria ’99, Eko 2012 and a host of friendly games, noting that the University’s sporting facilities and experience provide a good foundation for partnerships of this nature.
The DVC also pointed out the Vice-Chancellor’s interest in sports, particularly football, and assured the delegation that its proposals would be brought to her attention for consideration. He added that the proposals would receive appropriate attention at the University’s management level, beyond the preliminary discussions with the leadership of the Sports Centre.
Professor Falaiye commended Eko United for its interest in the University and its commitment to creating opportunities for young people through football.
The visit ended with the presentation of a commemorative gift bearing the Vice-Chancellor’s name to the University, as the club expressed hope for a mutually beneficial relationship.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Bayo Salau
