In an exhilarating development for Nigerian grassroots football, the Oriade Pre-Season Tournament is officially set to take place from March16 to March 21, 2026, offering participating clubs a professionally structured competitive platform ahead of the 2026 Nationwide League One (NLO) season.
Organized by Oriade Football Club, the rapidly rising football institution committed to cultivating local talent and elevating grassroots competition, this year’s edition promises a showcase of discipline, talent, and strategic preparation under professional tournament standards.
Tournament Schedule
🗓️ March 16 – Official Kick-Off
📿 March 19–20 – Ramadan Break
⚔️ March 21 – Semi-Finals
🏆 March 22 – Tournament Final
Each team is permitted to register a maximum of 20 players, and strict adherence to jersey numbering protocol will be enforced: each player must retain a consistent jersey number throughout the competition to meet league-standard requirements. Pre-match virtual check-ins will be held the evening before every fixture to coordinate kits and prevent kit clashes.
In line with the tournament’s objective to elevate local competitive football, the organizers have assured participating clubs that all matches will adhere to formal match protocols, including:
Pre-match online briefings for all participating teams
Uniform jersey regulation to enhance professionalism
Rigorous adherence to sporting regulations to ensure fairness
Prize Structure & Recognition
The Oriade Pre-Season Tournament has a compelling prize pool aimed at incentivizing excellence and talent discovery:
🏆 Champion: ₦500,000 (Nigerian Naira) plus a trophy and gold medals
🥇 Man of the Match Awards: Gifts presented at every match
⭐ Best Player of the Tournament: Opportunity to be professionally scouted
This reward structure reflects a growing trend in Nigerian football events where grassroots competitions serve as springboards for talent exposure and career advancement. Sports fixtures like these increasingly attract scouts and professionals looking to identify future stars.
About Oriade Football Club
Founded with a vision to revolutionize local football development, Oriade FC has steadily gained recognition as a driving force for talent cultivation in Osun State and beyond. The club emphasizes discipline, skill development, and community engagement through well-organized competitions that prepare teams for higher-level league play.
Message from the Founder
“We look forward to seeing exemplary sportsmanship, technical excellence, and the best performance from all participating teams,” said Mr. Olanrewaju Samuel O, President and Founder of the Oriade Pre-Season Tournament.
“This tournament is crafted not just to compete, but to elevate the standard of football in our community and beyond.”
