In recognition of the power of sport to unite, inspire and drive social change, as well as to encourage active male participation in the campaign against polio, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Nigeria has organised a football tournament as part of its public awareness programme.
The event, titled , ‘Vaccinate Your Superstar to Win’ and themed ‘Kick Away Zero Dose and Polio – One Goal at a Time’, began three months ago and culminated in a grand finale held on Friday, 19 September 2025, at the NITEL Playground, Cappa, Oshodi, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Aderonke Akinola-Akinwole, UNICEF’s Social and Behaviour Change Specialist, explained that the tournament was designed to eliminate zero-dose cases and polio from society. She emphasised that while UNICEF has made significant strides in routine immunisation for children, engaging men - who often hold decision-making power within families and communities - is key to eradicating vaccine-preventable diseases.
“The essence of this tournament is to remind our men that their authority should go beyond providing basic needs. They must also become the foremost protectors of their children’s health by supporting vaccination,” she said.
Akinola-Akinwole noted that although women are typically more involved in child health matters, male support leads to a marked increase in vaccine uptake and access. “This football tournament serves as a platform to galvanise men to champion routine immunisation, thereby reducing "Zero-Dozen cases and Polio-One Goal at a Time,' and other cumulative viral outbreaks,” she added.
She further stated that UNICEF aims to extend men’s influence from the home to Primary Health Centres, ensuring no child is left unvaccinated. “A missed child is a missed opportunity for a healthy life,” she remarked.
Following the tournament, over 5,000 men are expected to serve as campaign champions, with more than 300 male players already taking on advocacy roles. “As they use their legs to play, they also use their voices to promote the cause,” she said, urging families to discard myths and superstitions and prioritise vaccination.
In his remarks, Mobolaji Ogunlede, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, commended UNICEF for the initiative, stating that it would help young people understand the importance of active involvement in immunisation campaigns. He pledged continued support from the ministry to promote child health.
Dr Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, described the tournament as a welcome development that has expanded immunisation awareness at the grassroots level and highlighted the role of men in combating life-threatening diseases among children.
He expressed satisfaction with the board’s collaboration with international partners, particularly UNICEF, in improving immunisation coverage across the state and leveraging data for better health outcomes.
Dr Mustafa also announced that Lagos State will introduce the Measles Rubella vaccine for children in January 2026. He celebrated the state’s success in its 2025 immunisation campaign and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring every child is vaccinated.
In the tournament’s final match, Vinox FC defeated Great Olympics 3–1 on penalties after a 2–2 draw in regulation time. Vinox FC received a giant trophy and ₦500,000, while the runners-up were awarded ₦300,000. The third and fourth-placed teams received ₦250,000 and ₦150,000 respectively.
Played across various zones in Lagos State, the tournament featured over 20 matches and produced 60 goals, leaving a lasting impact on both the pitch and public health advocacy.
