jamal 
The 2026 edition of the Olowo’s Cup Football Tournament will kick off on June 1 with an eagerly anticipated derby between Methodist High School (MHO) and Owo High School (OHS) at the Owo Township Stadium.
The match will officially open the fourth edition of the tournament since its revitalisation by the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegeshin Ogunoye III. More than 30 secondary schools from across Owo Kingdom are expected to compete in this year’s tournament.
With a history dating back over 70 years, the Olowo’s Cup remains one of the kingdom’s most enduring sporting events. The competition was repackaged seven years ago following the ascension of Oba Ogunoye III and has since continued to serve as a platform for discovering and nurturing young football talents.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Owo Sports Development Committee, Dr. Yinka Osho, and the Committee’s Secretary, Mr. Sunday Ijanawo, organisers said the tournament will run from June to August 2026.
The opening round of matches will take place from June 1 to June 5, while the remaining Stage One fixtures are scheduled to continue until June 26.
Organisers said the competition aims to encourage youth development, sportsmanship and community unity through grassroots football. Young players from Owo and neighbouring communities will have the opportunity to showcase their skills, teamwork and determination throughout the tournament.
The opening fixture is expected to generate considerable interest among students, alumni and residents, particularly because the Olowo of Owo attended both participating schools. He began his secondary education at Methodist High School before completing it at Owo High School.
Hon. Ajibola Adetula Oludasa is the title sponsor of the tournament, with additional support from Oyin Waters, Rosco Waters, Rugibo Water Venture and other local businesses.
Beyond football, other sporting events scheduled as part of activities leading up to the annual Igogo Festival include wrestling, table tennis, lawn tennis and scrabble. Wrestling is sponsored by Chief Oyepata Ineren, while the table tennis competition is sponsored by Chief Olawale Ijaware, the Aladaye of Owo Kingdom.
The finals of the various competitions will be held during the Igogo Festival, one of the most prominent cultural celebrations in Owo and a major attraction for visitors to the ancient kingdom.
The tournament continues under its longstanding theme: “One Goal, One Passion, One Champion.”
Venue: Owo Township Stadium
Opening Match: Methodist High School vs Owo High School
Date: June 1, 2026
Tournament Duration: June–August 2026
