ASABA/Nigeria: Urhobo College, Effurun, has emerged champions of the 2025 Zenith Bank/Delta State Principal’s Cup after a pulsating 2–1 win over Ogbe-Ijaw Grammar School, Ogbe-Ijaw, in the grand finale played on Thursday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.
The high-energy encounter drew cheers from thousands of football enthusiasts, parents, and students, as both sides displayed exceptional skill and determination. With the victory, Urhobo College claimed the coveted trophy, a brand-new school bus, and a cash prize of ₦2 million, while the gallant runners-up, Ogbe-Ijaw Grammar School, took home ₦1.5 million.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori congratulated the winners for their outstanding performance and commended all the participating schools for showcasing talent, discipline, and sportsmanship. Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, the Governor said the competition aligns with his administration’s MORE Agenda, particularly in promoting youth development and creating opportunities for young Deltans to thrive.
“We believe that education goes beyond the classroom. The lessons you learn on the field—teamwork, discipline, and perseverance—are the same values that lead to success in life,” Oborevwori said.
The Governor, who expressed gratitude to God for the successful completion of the championship, noted that the tournament had become a veritable platform for talent discovery and character building among secondary school students in Delta State.
“Today, we have witnessed more than a football match; we have seen talent, teamwork, discipline, and true sportsmanship. The thrilling contest between Urhobo College and Ogbe-Ijaw Grammar School has been a joy to watch. You have both shown great skill, courage, and determination, and I am proud of you all,” he said.
Governor Oborevwori congratulated the champions for their hard work and urged them to remain humble, focused, and committed to their studies, while also commending the runners-up and other participants for their strong performances throughout the competition.
“To all our young athletes, keep training hard, listen to your coaches, and never neglect your studies. Education is the foundation for every great dream,” he advised.
The Governor further announced that the state government would soon roll out a special programme aimed at identifying and nurturing young football talents discovered through the Principal’s Cup and similar competitions, to prepare them for opportunities at the state, national, and international levels.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, described the annual championship as a classroom-supportive initiative that fosters discipline, unity, and excellence among students. She commended Zenith Bank for its continued sponsorship and noted that the competition had over the years produced promising footballers who have gone on to represent both Delta State and Nigeria at various levels.
Among the dignitaries present at the event was the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, who joined other top government officials and sports enthusiasts in applauding the spirited display of youthful energy and sportsmanship on the field.
The 2025 edition of the Zenith Bank/Delta State Principal’s Cup once again reaffirmed Delta’s reputation as a breeding ground for young sporting talents and a state deeply committed to youth development through education and sports.
