FIC Report (Edo State) – Senator Neda Imasuen, representing the Edo South Senatorial district in the National Assembly, officially inaugurated the Benin Unity Cup Football Tournament on Friday 24th October, 2025 at the Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia Stadium Benin City. The tournament aims to nurture young football talents across the seven Local Government Areas Of Edo South District. The District comprises Oredo, Ovia South-West, Egor, Ovia North-East, Orhionmwon, Ikpoba Okha, and Uhunmwode.
Scheduled to run from November 20 to December 20, 2025, It was conceived during the Benin Unity Summit, where Senator Imasuen donated three trophies for the participating Local Governments. The Competition will feature Eight teams, each equipped with Jerseys for 22 players provided by the tournament sponsor.
Addressing the gathering at the launch, Senator Imasuen emphasized that his motivation is not political but driven by a genuine desire to revive football in the state and country. He stated, “This tournament is a farm for football talents, and we will ensure International scouts are present to discover emerging stars. Although it started late, it promises to be a great initiative.”
In his remarks, Fred Newton, Chairman of the Edo Football Association, commended Senator Imasuen for pioneering this unprecedented tournament in Edo South. He assured that Scouts from Abroad will be present to identify talents for National and International representation.
In his goodwill message, The Director General of the National Institute of Sports, Hon. Philip Shaibu, praised the Senator’s efforts, describing the Initiative as a landmark program. “The NIS will partner with thos tournament to help discover and nurture young talents toward stardom,” he assured.
Idehen Ebomwonyi, speaking at the unveiling ceremony, lauded the Senator’s vision, noting that football serves as a vital tool for talent discovery, unity, and Cultural enrichment. “We hope to unearth future stars like Julius Agahowa and Baldwin Bazuaye from this district,” he added..
The Draw, conducted by Edo State Commissioner for Youths, Hon. Charity Amayaenvbo, grouped Ovia North-East, Ikpoba-Okha, Egor, and Uhunmwode in Group A, while Oredo One, Ovia South-West, Orhionmwon, and Oredo Two comprise Group B. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top four teams, with the winners receiving N1 million, second place N700,000, third place N500,000, and fourth place N300,000.
The Grand finale is set to take place at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, with group matches played at Irhirhi Sports Ground and the University of Uniben Sports Centre. The event will be attended by top Government Officials and Football Stakeholders, celebrating the district’s emerging football talents.
The tournament promises to be a significant step toward Youth Empowerment and Sports development in Edo South.
Signed
Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO,
FIC Benin.
October 24th, 2025.
