The Delta Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sports development through sustained investment in infrastructure, training facilities, and grassroots competitions, as the 2025 Zenith Bank Delta Headmasters’ Cup officially kicked off in Asaba on Tuesday.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Prince Johnson Erijo, gave the assurance during the opening ceremony of the tournament, which featured a thrilling match between Okwe Primary School, Asaba and Ezemese Primary School, Ibusa.
Governor Oborevwori commended Zenith Bank Plc for its consistent sponsorship of the Headmasters’ Cup, describing the competition as a vital platform for discovering and nurturing young football talent in primary schools across the state.
“Our administration is determined to sustain Delta’s leading position in sports through deliberate and sustained investment in youth development.
“To our young footballers, play with passion, discipline, and fairness. Remember, you are not only representing your schools but also writing the first pages of your personal stories.
”Many great footballers began on school fields just like this with dreams in their hearts and hope in their eyes, ” he said.
He also praised teachers, headmasters, and coaches for their mentorship and contribution to youth development, emphasising that their commitment continued to shape the future of young athletes in the state.
In his remarks, the State Commissioner for Primary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, described the annual tournament as a proud symbol of Delta’s commitment to grassroots sports and youth empowerment.
He noted that the competition, since inception, had produced promising young players who have gone on to represent Delta and Nigeria in age-grade football.
“This is one of the ideals of our MORE Agenda. When we invest in the energy and potential of our children, we are investing in a brighter, stronger, and more peaceful Delta State,” he said.
The Commissioner lauded Zenith Bank for its sustained partnership, saying the competition transcended football by promoting discipline, teamwork, and character-building among pupils.
Speaking on behalf of Zenith Bank, Mr. Ogunbor Ubaka said the sponsorship formed part of the bank’s Youth and Sports Development Programme, which aligned with its corporate social responsibility pillars of education, youth empowerment, and community development.
“Zenith Bank continued to invest in grassroots sports from the Lagos Basketball League to the Delta Principals’ Cup and now the Headmasters’ Cup.
“We believe sports build discipline, leadership, and character. This competition is more than a football tournament; it’s a platform for early talent discovery and youth development, ” he said.
Ubaka expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for his leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing sports in the state.
In the tournament’s opening game, Ezemese Primary School, Ibusa, defeated Okwe Primary School, Asaba, by a lone goal.
The match’s only goal came from Ogun Delight of Ezemese Primary in the first half, while Okwe Primary missed a penalty that could have leveled the score.
Speaking after the match, Ernest Success, captain of the winning team, expressed delight over their victory.
His counterpart, Oputa Chigoziem of Okwe Primary, said his team would work harder in subsequent matches.
