The 2025 Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) Unity Cup concluded on Saturday with Egor and Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Areas emerging champions in the boys’ and girls’ categories, respectively.
The competition, held at Idogbo Secondary School sports grounds in Ikpoba-Okha LGA, featured under-18 boys and girls teams from across Edo State, promoting grassroots football and youth development.
Egor claimed the boys’ title with a convincing 3–0 victory over Etsako West in the final, displaying superior teamwork and tactical discipline. In the girls’ final, hosts Ikpoba-Okha edged Oredo LGA 1–0 to secure their first-ever Unity Cup trophy.
Egor’s girls also ended their campaign on a high, defeating Ovia South-West 1–0 in the third-place match to earn the Best Female Team award.
The closing ceremony attracted dignitaries including Ikpoba-Okha LGA Chairman, Rt. Hon. Obosa Jolly; Egor LGA Chairman, Hon. Dr. Kelvin Eguakun; NULGE Edo State Chairman, Comrade Dr. Scot Aigbovia; Edo FA Chairman, Mr. Fred Newton Erhunmwunse; and representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Special merit awards were presented to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Sir (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe; Mr. Erhunmwunse; Chairman Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Enabulele; Edo NLC Chairman, Comrade Bernard Joman; Comrade Aigbovia, and Rt. Hon. Jolly for their contributions to grassroots sports development.
Individual awards went to Henry (Esan South East) as Highest Goal Scorer (Male), Lucky Nuka (Egor) as Most Valuable Player (Male), and Usman Danstingo (Egor) as Best Goalkeeper (Male). Ikpoba-Okha’s Joy Nwodo was named Best Female Player, while Grace Ufot and Omorodion Success won Highest Goal Scorer and Best Goalkeeper (Female), respectively. Fair Play Team awards went to Etsako West (Male) and Egor (Female).
In his remarks, Rt. Hon. Obosa Jolly described the tournament as “a beacon of hope” for Edo youth, promoting peace, unity, and empowerment. He also congratulated Governor Monday Okpebholo on his Supreme Court victory, calling the tournament a fitting celebration for the state.
Comrade Aigbovia commended the discipline and sportsmanship displayed, noting that the Unity Cup is not just about football but a platform for nurturing talent and building peace.
Egor LGA was announced as host for the 2026 edition, a decision welcomed with excitement following its impressive performance this year.
With the successful conclusion of this year’s tournament, the NULGE Unity Cup continues to strengthen community bonds, inspire dreams, and promote youth development across Edo State.
