A football revolution is subtly developing in the center of Ekpoma, Edo State, as Big 100 Football Club sets up shape to become the next big thing in sports in Nigeria.
Theophilus Ayemere founded the team in May 2024, and since then, it has advanced significantly, placing second in the Edo State Football League and being promoted to the Nationwide League One for the 2025–2026 campaign. The club’s 25-person camp, which doubles as a training facility and player housing, has grown to be a haven for young athletes looking to start their professional careers.
“Our vision extends beyond Nigeria. We’re building a bridge to connect local talents with international opportunities,” Ayemere said.
With guidance of the head coach Maxwell Ighedosa, the team has developed a distinctive playing style that has caught the attention of scouts from European clubs.
“We focus on discipline, creativity and precision. These are qualities that set our players apart and make them attractive to international clubs,” Ighedosa said.
The club’s quick ascent reflects Nigeria’s expanding power in international culture and sports, especially the popularity of Afrobeats abroad. Big 100 FC hopes to establish comparable chances in football to the music industry’s shift from consuming international material to exporting local talent.
Due to the club’s international links with football agencies, talented players now have more options to sign professional contracts overseas. Given that football still has a strong hold on Nigerian sports fans, the timing of this project seems ideal.
The popularity of the sport was recently brought to light at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, where the fervor of Nigerian supporters garnered media attention—albeit tragically—when five people were reported to have died while watching the Super Eagles’ penalty shootout versus South Africa in the semi-final.
“We’re not just building a football club; we’re creating a pathway for young Nigerians to achieve their dreams through football,” Ayemere added.
As Big 100 FC prepares for its debut in the Nationwide League One, it stands as a testament to how local initiatives can potentially transform Nigeria’s football landscape, offering hope to thousands of young talents across the country.
