Urhobo College of Uvwie, Warri, has emerged as champions of the 2025 Delta State/Zenith Bank Principals’ Cup, defeating Ogbe-Ijoh Grammar School, Warri South West, 2-1 in an exhilarating final held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, yesterday.
The Uvwie boys took the lead just thirty-seven seconds into the match and doubled their advantage in the 30th minute. Ogbe-Ijoh Grammar School managed to pull one back midway through the second half. Despite pressure in the closing stages, Urhobo College held firm to lift the prestigious trophy.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his Deputy, John Onyeme, praised all participating schools for their impressive performances, deeming every team a champion.
He also commended Zenith Bank and the organisers, HideaPlus Limited, for their ongoing investment in grassroots football development.
In his address, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, noted that the success of the tournament reinforces Delta’s prominent role in grassroots football across Nigeria.
Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Dr. Adaora Umeoji, represented by Zonal Head, Dr. Ifeanyi Atamah, expressed pride in supporting youth development through sports, adding that several past participants have progressed to professional levels.
The organisers, led by HideaPlus Managing Director, Tony Pemu, expressed satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the competition.
Urhobo College coach, Adamu Ali, along with the team captain, expressed their joy over the victory, vowing to return even stronger next year.
Earlier, Otokutu Grammar School, Ughelli South, lost 1-0 to Justice Peace and Success Academy, Aniocha South, in the Third-Place match.
For their achievements, Urhobo College received an 18-seater Hummer bus and N2m, while runners-up Ogbe-Ijoh Grammar School were awarded N1.5m. The third and fourth-placed teams received N1m and N500,000, respectively.
With this victory, Urhobo College has etched its name in Delta football history as champions of the 2025 Principals’ Cup.
Speaking at the event, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori congratulated Urhobo College on their triumph. Represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, he disclosed that the competition is part of his MORE Agenda, which focuses on youth development and providing every young person in Delta State with opportunities to grow and succeed.
“We believe that education extends beyond the classroom; the lessons learned on the field—teamwork, discipline, and perseverance—are the same lessons that lead to success in life.”
“I am pleased to stand before you today at the grand finale of the 2025 Zenith Delta Principals’ Cup Football Competition. We thank Almighty God for our safe gathering and for the success of this year’s tournament.”
“Today, we have witnessed more than a mere football match; we have seen talent, teamwork, discipline, and the true spirit of sportsmanship. The thrilling contest between Urhobo College, Effurun, and Ogbe-Ijoh Grammar School has been a joy to behold; both teams demonstrated great skill, courage, and determination, and I am proud of you all.”
“To the winners, I warmly congratulate you on your victory; you have worked hard to earn this success; celebrate it with joy, but also with humility. Remember that true champions remain disciplined and focused even after the applause fades.”
“To the runners-up, you have given your all; reaching the finals is no small feat, requiring dedication, focus, and hard work—qualities you have clearly displayed throughout this competition.”
“To the teams that placed third and fourth, you also fought bravely and represented your schools with honour; I commend you all for your excellent performances and sportsmanship.”
“To all our young athletes, keep training hard, listen to your coaches, and never neglect your studies; education is the solid foundation for every great dream.”
“I am also pleased to announce that the Delta State Government will soon initiate a special programme to identify and train talented players discovered through competitions like this. Our goal is to help you develop your skills and prepare for opportunities at state, national, and international levels.”
The Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, remarked that the championship is a supportive event that promotes unity, discipline, and excellence among secondary students across the State. She noted that since its inception, the tournament has grown and had a significant impact on ethnic groups’ football, grooming students who have represented Delta State and Nigeria in international competitions.
