The Motherland Heritage Cup (MHC) 2026 has been launched in Lagos as a major initiative aimed at promoting African sports, culture and stronger ties between the continent and its global diaspora.
The project, spearheaded by Motherland Cup Africa Limited, is led by convener and chief executive officer Oluwatobi Johnson Fakayode, with former Super Eagles star Daniel Amokachi serving as global brand ambassador and actor Jim Iyke as co-founder and chief strategy officer.
The initiative also enjoys the support of entertainment executive Larry Gaga, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC).
Celebrating African Heritage Through Football
The Motherland Heritage Cup emerged from the success of the Motherland Festival & Expo 2025, which brought together Africans and members of the diaspora in Lagos. Organisers say the tournament will combine football, music, comedy, entertainment and cultural showcases to celebrate African heritage while reconnecting people of African descent across the world.
Four Cities to Host Activities
The event will be hosted across four Nigerian cities, with Lagos serving as the flagship venue. Beyond sports and entertainment, organisers say the initiative is designed to create opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), attract investment, boost tourism and position Nigeria as a leading destination for cultural exchange and youth engagement.
Strong Support from National Leaders
The project has received backing from prominent national leaders. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the Grand Patron, while Prince Tajudeen Olusi serves as Life Patron. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu are also among its supporters.
‘One Family Reunited on One Field’
Speaking at the launch, Fakayode described the competition as a platform for uniting Africans and the diaspora through shared heritage.
“We are unlocking Africa’s greatest superpower and reuniting this continent with her diaspora through football, culture and entertainment. We are one family separated by history and reunited on one field,” he said.
He added that the Motherland Heritage Cup would bring together nations and communities of Afro-cultural descent from Africa, the Caribbean, South America and Latin America.
Charity Match to Herald Tournament
As part of activities leading up to the tournament, organisers have scheduled a charity exhibition match on August 8, 2026, featuring African and Afro-diaspora football legends.
The Motherland Heritage Cup 2026, which is being organised in partnership with the Bank of Industry, is scheduled to kick off in November 2026.
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