Bet9ja Foundation Commits ₦40 Million to 2026 Ex-Internationals Cup

Nigerian football just got a massive shot in the arm.

The Bet9ja Foundation has officially committed ₦40 million to the 2026 edition of the Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup — a significant increase from the inaugural edition and a clear signal that this tournament is quickly becoming one of the most important grassroots football events in the country.

The announcement has been met with widespread excitement across the football community, particularly in Lagos where the competition is firmly rooted. For a tournament still in its early years, attracting this level of investment speaks volumes about what has been built so far.

At the heart of this commitment is Kunle Soname, Chairman of Bet9ja, who reportedly embraced the initiative personally before recommending it to the Bet9ja Foundation leadership. Executive Director Gloria Ada Cuomo and Marketing Manager Omotola Oronti both aligned with the vision, and together the foundation moved decisively to back the 2026 tournament.

The success of the first edition played no small part in convincing the foundation to increase its support. Organisers had delivered a clean, well-run competition that gave former Super Eagles legends a meaningful platform — and the Bet9ja Foundation took note.

Lagos State Football Association Chairman, Gafar Liameed, was effusive in his praise. He thanked the Bet9ja Foundation and noted that the partnership creates the opportunity to honour Nigeria’s legends while inspiring young talents across Lagos. He further described Kunle Soname as an icon whose interventions continue to speak directly to youth empowerment and the creation of sustainable opportunities for young Nigerians.

With ₦40 million now behind it, the 2026 Ex-Internationals Cup is poised to deliver a bigger, bolder experience — for the legends on the pitch, for the fans in the stands, and for the young players watching every moment with wide eyes.