Football for peace takes center stage in Delta State, as 24 veteran teams drawn from across the state converge in Effurun for the third edition of the Ofugara Unity Cup.
The competition, which celebrates fitness, friendship, and community bonding among retired stars, carries a ten million naira grand prize and has been described as more than just a tournament but a platform for peace and harmony.
Performing the official kickoff, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Chairman of the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, Chief Solomon Ighrakpata, emphasized the need for unity, love, and peaceful coexistence among Deltans, irrespective of ethnic backgrounds.
He assured the gathering that sports would remain a vital instrument for social development under his administration’s MORE Agenda.
Uvwie Local Government Chairman, Hon. Anthony Ofoni, in his remarks, noted that sporting activities such as the tournament were critical in keeping the elderly active and healthy while fostering community ties.
On behalf of the host family, Barrister Antoinette Ofugara explained that the vision of the tournament extended beyond football, highlighting its social value.
According to her, this year’s edition was designed not only to promote physical fitness but also to strengthen social bonds among the elderly population, creating a vibrant platform where older citizens can stay active while forging lifelong friendships.
The sponsors, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, represented by Mrs. Deicy Jaja, Head of Administration, also affirmed their pride in supporting the project.
She maintained that the competition stood out as “a platform that fosters peace, unity, and healthy bonding,” urging all the teams to compete in the true spirit of sportsmanship.
Other dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Delta State Football Association, Hon. Godwin Adode, applauded the Ofugara family for their steadfast commitment in raising the standard of the tournament each year and sustaining its role as a unifying force.
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On the pitch, the opening fixture produced a spectacle as Corner-Lux All Stars, the reigning champions, overpowered Delta All-Stars Veterans International with a commanding 5–0 victory.
This year’s competition, which runs on weekends, offers a grand prize of ₦10 million for the champions, with ₦7 million, ₦5 and 3 million for second, third and fourth place finishers respectively.
The tournament is billed to climax in the third week of November 2025.
