Eigbedion Football Tournament Fosters Unity and Sportsmanship in Ekpoma
The third edition of the Annual Late Sir Peter Akinhonmi Eigbedion (KSM) Football Competition recently concluded in Ekpoma, Edo State, marking a significant celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and legacy within the community. This week-long tournament, which ran from March 23 to March 31, 2026, saw increased participation and enhanced organisation, underscoring its growing importance among students, alumni, and local residents.
Prominent Figures Grace Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony attracted a distinguished gathering of personalities from academic, medical, and traditional institutions. Prof. (Mrs.) Eunice Omonzejie, Vice Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, chaired the event and was represented by Prof. Osagie Ekhator, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics). Other notable attendees included Dr. Festus Aisabokhale, Chief Medical Director of Ofure Medical Centre; Dr. Peter Akhideno, Consultant Specialist at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital; and Dr. Cyril Erameh, former Executive Director of the Lassa Fever Institute.
Traditional representation was led by His Royal Highness Alhaji W. O. Momodu II, Onogie of Irrua and Okaijesan of Esanland, who was represented by Chief Dr. Christopher Igene and other palace chiefs. The event also featured members of the University Secondary School Old Students’ Association (USSEOSA), with Home Branch Chairman Mrs. Cordelia Aigbevboile in attendance, along with student leaders such as Comrade David Ohiwerei, President of the Ambrose Alli University Medical Students Association (AAUMSA), and Mr. Daniel Omoruyi, the association's Sports Director.
Organisation and Sponsorship Highlights
Organised under the auspices of USSEOSA and fully sponsored by Dr. Andrew Oseghale Eigbedion, an alumnus from the 1992 set, the competition was praised as a vital platform for youth development through sports. Mrs. Fidelia Ndudi Ajuwa, Principal of Ambrose Alli University Secondary School, served as Chief Host and received commendations for her role in ensuring the tournament's smooth execution. Matches were held at the school's football field, where teams displayed impressive skill and competitiveness throughout the event.
Exciting Matches and Award Winners
The tournament's highlight was the final match between the SSS1 and SSS3 male teams. SSS1 initially took a 2–0 lead, but SSS3 mounted a strong comeback to equalise before ultimately losing 3–2 in a penalty shootout. In the overall standings, the SSS1 male team emerged as winners in the senior category, while the SSS3 female team secured the female title. At the junior level, the JSS2 male and female teams dominated their respective categories.
Individual awards were presented to outstanding participants, including the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and highest goal scorer. Miss Justina Agbomian of JSS 2C received the trophy for the Junior Secondary School Female Category winners from Dr. Andrew Eigbedion, symbolising the event's focus on recognising young talents.
Emphasis on Community Values
During the event, organisers emphasised the importance of teamwork, discipline, resilience, and unity, noting that the competition continues to serve as a tool for strengthening community bonds and inspiring young athletes. The annual tournament, held in honour of the late Sir Peter Akinhonmi Eigbedion, has grown into a symbol of legacy and community development in Ekpoma, promoting positive values and fostering a sense of belonging among participants and spectators alike.
