Lagos is set to host the fourth edition of the Little League National and West Africa Tournament from December 17 to 22, 2026, with 14 teams expected to compete across four divisions. The six-day competition, scheduled to take place at Baptist Academy, Obanikoro, Lagos, will bring together young baseball and softball players for an event organisers describe as a celebration of youthful talent, sportsmanship, friendship and community spirit. Speaking ahead of the tournament, Kehinde Laniyan, District Administrator of Little League Nigeria, Tournament Director of the National and West Africa Little League Tournaments, Baseball Commissioner for the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Africa and President of Kenny Tournament Enterprises Limited, described the competition as “our own World Series”, saying it offers children an opportunity to showcase their abilities and experience the excitement and competitive spirit of baseball and softball. Laniyan noted that the tournament has grown into its fourth edition after three consecutive successful outings, reflecting the organisers’ commitment to establishing Little League as a major platform for youth sports development in Nigeria. According to him, the programme goes beyond sporting competition, using baseball and softball to teach children important life values, including discipline, respect, teamwork, responsibility, perseverance and humility. He explained that the initiative focuses on children during their formative years, when character, confidence and leadership qualities are being developed. “We are not simply producing baseball and softball players; we are helping to raise responsible young people and future leaders,” Laniyan said. The District Administrator also highlighted the importance of Little League in building a sustainable foundation for the future of baseball and softball in Nigeria. He stressed that young athletes need structured opportunities to develop their abilities and progress to higher levels of competition, adding that the programme provides opportunities for coaching, talent identification, competitive experience and international exposure. Laniyan noted that through Little League’s international affiliations and development pathways, young players have opportunities to progress beyond their communities and potentially compete at international championships and other major sporting events, including the Olympic Games. He further encouraged parents, schools, sports administrators, community leaders, sponsors and sports enthusiasts to support the tournament and give the young participants an opportunity to experience what he described as an unforgettable sporting event. The fourth edition is expected to further strengthen grassroots baseball and softball development while providing a platform for young athletes to display their talents, develop important life skills and build lasting relationships through sport. The tournament will run from December 17 to 22, 2026, at Baptist Academy, Obanikoro, Lagos. Post navigation Toluwanisings’ Family Threatens to exhume Singer’s Remains Over Burial Plans
