The apathy surrounding the 2025 President Cup state eliminations was disheartening, raising questions about the future of Nigeria’s oldest national football tournament. Is this prestigious competition gradually fading into obscurity, or has it simply lost the vibrant allure that once captivated football fans nationwide? To chart a path toward revival, it is essential to explore the tournament’s rich history, analyze the factors behind its decline, and propose strategic measures to restore its former glory.

The tournament that is today known as the President Cup has undergone several transformations since its inception. It began as the Governor’s Cup in the early 1940s, serving as a platform for local clubs to compete for regional pride. As the competition grew in popularity, it evolved into the Challenge Cup, and later the FA Cup, cementing its status as the pinnacle of Nigerian football tournaments.

In the early 2000s, the competition was renamed the Federation Cup, reflecting a more national identity. However, in 2024, the tournament underwent yet another rebranding, becoming the President Cup. Despite these changes, the competition maintained its tradition of producing intense rivalries, electrifying atmospheres, and memorable football moments.

Unfortunately, this year’s state-level series was marred by apathy and poor participation. In several states, the turnout was so low that teams did not even bother to register, leading to concerns about the tournament’s relevance in today’s football landscape. However, amidst this general decline, some state finals showcased the tournament’s potential for unpredictability and excitement, with underdogs delivering stunning upsets against established clubs.

The 2025 state finals delivered remarkable surprises, reinforcing the President Cup’s legacy of giant-killing moments:

• Niger State: Atlantic FC defeated Harmony FA 6-5 on penalties, showcasing the unpredictability of the tournament.

• Abia State: Ahudiyannem FC stunned Enyimba 3-1 on penalties, marking a rare defeat for one of Nigeria’s most successful clubs.

• Lagos: Inter Lagos edged out Ikorodu City 5-4 on penalties, denying a major club the state title.

• Bayelsa: Crusaders FC overcame Bayelsa United 4-2 in a dramatic shootout, showcasing the resilience of lesser-known teams.

• Ogun State: Imperial FC dethroned Beyond Limits 8-7 on penalties, continuing their remarkable cup run.

These thrilling encounters demonstrated that the President Cup still holds the magic of David vs. Goliath narratives, an essential element that has historically drawn fans to the tournament. However, despite these moments of brilliance, the overall decline in organization, sponsorship, and fan engagement threatens the competition’s long-term appeal.

Several factors have contributed to the diminishing prestige of the President Cup:

1. Poor Organization and Scheduling

• Inconsistent scheduling and last-minute changes have disrupted the tournament’s flow, leading to logistical issues for teams and fans.

• Lack of proper coordination has resulted in poor match-day experiences, affecting attendance and enthusiasm.

2. Inadequate Sponsorship and Marketing

• The tournament lacks financial backing, leading to low prize money and unattractive incentives for clubs.

• Weak marketing strategies have failed to capture the attention of younger audiences, resulting in declining visibility.

3. Poor Stadium Infrastructure

• Many stadiums used for the competition are in dilapidated conditions, affecting the quality of play and fan experiences.

• Poor facilities also pose safety risks to players and spectators, discouraging attendance.

4. Limited Media Coverage and Visibility

• Minimal television and online streaming coverage has hindered national and international reach.

• The lack of engaging content, such as highlights, player interviews, and historical retrospectives, has reduced fan engagement.

5. Competition from Other Tournaments

• The rise of more lucrative tournaments, like the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL), has diverted attention and resources from the President Cup.

• Top clubs prioritize other competitions due to better financial rewards and media exposure.

To revive the prestige of the President Cup, a comprehensive strategy focused on rebranding, infrastructure development, better organization, and enhanced fan engagement is essential.

1. Rebranding and Marketing

• Modernize Brand Identity: Introduce a new logo and digital presence tailored to younger audiences, enhancing brand appeal.

• Leverage Social Media: Utilize platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for match highlights, live interactions, and storytelling.

• Engage Legends and Influencers: Involve football legends and social media influencers to bridge generational gaps and attract new fans.

2. Securing Sponsorship and Financial Investment

• Corporate Partnerships: Collaborate with top brands in telecommunications, banking, and FMCG sectors for long-term sponsorship deals.

• Increase Prize Money and Incentives: Attractive rewards will motivate clubs to prioritize the tournament.

• Government and Private Sector Support: Encourage government incentives for corporate sponsorship to stimulate investment in football.

3. Infrastructure Development

• Upgrade Stadiums: Work with state governments to renovate key stadiums, ensuring modern facilities and safety standards.

• Improve Broadcasting Facilities: Invest in advanced broadcasting equipment for high-quality live coverage.

4. Enhanced Media Coverage and Digital Engagement

• Live Streaming and Broadcast Deals: Partner with digital streaming platforms (e.g., YouTube Live, Showmax) and traditional broadcasters to maximize reach.

• Content Creation and Storytelling: Produce behind-the-scenes footage, player profiles, and historical retrospectives to enhance fan engagement.

5. Improved Tournament Structure and Scheduling

• Consistent Calendar: Establish a fixed annual schedule to avoid conflicts with other tournaments.

• Transparent Draws and Fixtures: Ensure transparency in the draw process and timely fixture announcements.

• Venue Rotation: Rotate venues across regions to attract diverse fan bases and promote national unity.

6. Fan Engagement and Community Involvement

• Interactive Fan Experiences: Organize fan zones, autograph sessions, and meet-and-greet events.

• Community Initiatives: Partner with local communities for pre-match events, boosting local support and participation.

To successfully revive the President Cup, Nigeria can learn from similar tournaments worldwide