Speaking , Mr. Patrick Okpavuerhe, YSFON’s National Secretary who led the delegation praised Enabulele for his outstanding efforts in advancing youth sports, especially highlighting Edo State’s notable success in grassroots football development.
He revealed that the federation is seeking Edo State’s support to host this year’s President Unity Cup, scheduled from September 25 to October 1, 2025. As an alternative, the state was also considered for the Chief of Naval Staff Tournament. Okpavuerhe noted that this decision was made at the recent Central Working Committee meeting in recognition of Edo’s exceptional contributions to grassroots sports.
Explaining the significance of the President Unity Cup, Okpavuerhe said, “The President Unity Cup, first held in 1982 after former President Shehu Shagari donated the trophy, has become a platform to celebrate President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Nigeria’s independence through sports, fostering national unity.”
YSFON, which was founded in 1965, also shared details about the Under-14 Boys and Under-17 Girls Chief ofNaval Staff Tournament, an event held since 1999 but yet to be hosted in Edo State. Okpavuerhe added, “We are requesting Edo’s support in providing logistics upon approval. Our plan is to host the Chief of Naval Staff Tournament in Benin City, using the President Unity Cup as a test run.”
Alhaji Ahmed Abdullah, YSFON’s National Welfare Officer and Acting National Organising Secretary, commended Edo State’s impressive performance at the recently concluded National Youth Games in Asaba. He described the state as “one of Nigeria’s foremost promoters of grassroots sports development.”
Responding on behalf of the Sports Commission Chairman, the Executive Director representing Edo Central, Barr. Anthony Ikuenobe, expressed the Commission’s eagerness to collaborate. He assured the delegation, “The Commission will review past correspondences and liaise with the Sports of Education to support these tournaments. Edo remains committed to youth and grassroots sports development.”
Also present at the meeting were Mr. Kali Gwegwe, Vice President of YSFON South-South Zone; Mr. Osagiede Osamudiamen, Chairman of Edo State YSFON; Mr. Harrison Iyonmana, Secretary of Edo State YSFON; and Mr. Benmore Omoregieva, Welfare Officer of Edo State YSFON.
