Rising Stars Football League suspends Lagos edition, Abuja 2nd season set to launch

The Rising Stars Football League (RSFL), a platform renowned for nurturing grassroots football talent in Nigeria, has officially announced the suspension of its Lagos edition.

The decision, disclosed during a recent press conference at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, was driven by the prohibitive costs of facilities and logistical challenges unique to Lagos.

Speaking at the event, Project Coordinator Ifeanyi Kama shed light on the league’s difficult but necessary decision to put the Lagos edition on hold.

He stated:”We always knew from the start that Abuja and Lagos are two different environments. While we anticipated higher costs in Lagos, the extent of the financial burden has been overwhelming. This reality has made it difficult for us to sustain the high standards we’ve set for the league.”

The RSFL prides itself on giving back to the community by creating opportunities for young football talents to develop and thrive. Kama emphasized that continuing with the Lagos edition under the current circumstances would compromise this mission. He, however, assured stakeholders that the league is not abandoning Lagos permanently but taking the necessary time to reevaluate and restructure its approach.

“This pause is not a closure. It’s a strategic decision. We remain committed to hosting the Lagos edition once the conditions improve. We believe that by revisiting the structure and resolving key logistical hurdles, we can deliver an even better experience in Lagos,” Kama explained.

The Rising Stars Football League has consistently been a beacon of hope for young footballers across Nigeria.

With its mission to foster grassroots development, the league has become a launchpad for discovering and nurturing hidden talents. Despite the challenges in Lagos, the league’s leadership has reaffirmed its dedication to expanding its reach and delivering exceptional footballing experiences.

Kama further stated: “Our vision is to create an enabling environment where young players can thrive. While Lagos presents unique challenges, we are learning from this process and remain determined to make an impact in the city when the time is right.”

As the Lagos edition takes a back seat, the RSFL is forging ahead with its second season in Abuja. The organizers promise an even more captivating experience, with improvements drawn from the lessons of the inaugural season.

“We are moving forward with Season Two in Abuja, which will serve as a model for future expansions, including Lagos. The upcoming season will showcase our commitment to excellence and our dedication to providing a platform for young talents to shine,” Kama concluded.

The Rising Stars Football League continues to position itself as a catalyst for grassroots football development in Nigeria. While the temporary suspension of the Lagos edition may be disappointing for fans, the league’s leadership remains optimistic about the future.

Further updates on the Lagos edition will be provided as plans evolve. For now, all eyes are on the Abuja edition, which promises to be a thrilling continuation of the league’s impactful journey.