The NPFL champions Remo Stars of Ikenne have confirmed their full readiness for the upcoming Eko International Cup, a pre-season tournament set to run from 6–13 July at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.
Organised by SKI‑Hi Entertainment in partnership with Lagos State Government, the eight-team event will feature top Nigerian sides including Remo Stars, Enyimba, Shooting Stars, and Ikorodu United. They’ll be joined by international clubs such as Ghana’s Hearts of Oak, Sierra Leone’s FC Kallon, South Africa’s SuperSport United, and Benin’s Dadje FC.
A key fixture will be the rekindled South-West derby between Remo Stars and Shooting Stars, adding spice after Remo claimed a double over their Ibadan rivals in the recent league season. Both clubs are commanded by respected coaches Daniel Ogunmodede and Gbenga Ogunbote promising a fiercely competitive match.
The LOC’s Executive Director of Publicity and Strategy, Onome Obruthe, said preparations are well underway, with a major publicity drive starting 6 June. Early ticket sales will launch then too, backed by partners like MTN, Bigi, and Lagos State Government.
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Editorial
We’re excited to see Remo Stars stepping onto the national stage once again, armed with fresh silverware and ambition. The South-West derby offers more than nostalgia it’s a statement of intent. Winning isn’t enough demonstrating depth, tactical maturity, and community pride will define their pre-season.
This tournament offers a crucial platform not just for Remo, but for domestic exposure. With Enyimba’s continental pedigree and international participants joining the fray, Remo can benchmark itself against diverse styles. Execution on the pitch must align with off-field excellence marketing, fan engagement, and seamless logistics.
As defending champions, Remo bear a responsibility to set standards. Let their matches galvanise local households, fill the stands, and attract broadcast attention. When Nigerian clubs show continental flair at home, the league’s reputation rises and with it player development, sponsor interest and fan loyalty.
If Remo Stars deliver tactically disciplined performances that balance flair with focus, they won’t just play they’ll inspire. This Eko International Cup is an opportunity to showcase that Nigerian football’s future isn’t just bright it’s present.
Did You Know?
- Remo Stars captured their first-ever NPFL title in May 2025, becoming the first privately-owned team in over 20 years to do so.
- The tournament will feature eight teams, including Nigerian league heavyweights and top clubs from Ghana, Benin, South Africa, and Sierra Leone.
- Match tickets and awareness campaigns will launch from 6 June, exactly one month before kick-off, in collaboration with MTN and Bigi Drinks.
- Remo Stars defeated Shooting Stars twice last NPFL season 2–1 in Ikenne and 1–0 in Ibadan fuelling derby excitement.
- The Eko International Cup also includes an under‑17 junior event, showcasing Lagos academy talent alongside professional fixtures.
