…Jonathan Describes Football as a Tool for National Unity
Oke FC of Otuoke has emerged champions of the maiden Dr. Goodluck Jonathan Adionin Football Tournament, capping weeks of exciting grassroots football across four centres in Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State.
In the keenly contested final organized by the Ogbia Brotherhood Youth Council in collaboration with Citiboi Concepts, Oke FC defeated Otuoke Selected FC 2–1 at the Federal University Otuoke Sports Pitch.
Itaribo Aye fired Oke FC ahead just before halftime, but Otuoke Selected FC hit back in the 60th minute through Young-Jack Albert. With the game appearing destined for penalties, Aye once again rose to the occasion, scoring the decisive goal that sealed the victory for Oke FC in front of a large crowd of football lovers and community leaders.
Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, represented by Chief Ibu Williams Mizomome, Technical Adviser to Governor Douye Diri on Special Duties, praised the tournament for reinforcing peace and unity among Ogbia communities. He emphasized that football remains a powerful instrument for engaging youth positively and combating crime and social vices.
He further disclosed that the organizers have been directed to make the tournament an annual event, noting that Dr. Azibapu Eruani, Group President of Azikel Group, has been mandated to support the sustainability of the vision.
Dr. Jonathan commended the Ogbia Brotherhood Youth Council and Citiboi Concepts for the initiative, reaffirming his commitment to empowering young people across Bayelsa State.
Also speaking, Chairman of Ogbia LGA, Hon. Jeremiah Golden, represented by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Mr. Azibanyam Apaga, expressed optimism that the competition would soon serve as a platform for Ogbia youths to build professional football careers.
Earlier in his welcome address, the vision bearer of the tournament, Mr. Glory Igere (Citiboi), applauded the Local Organizing Committee, stakeholders, and participating teams for their commitment and sportsmanship. He expressed satisfaction with the high level of football displayed, noting that the tournament clearly demonstrates the importance of sustained grassroots football development in the state. He added that both finalists, Oke FC and Otuoke Selected FC, deserved their place in the final after weeks of outstanding performances.
In their goodwill messages, Hon. Richard Ibegu, member representing Ogbia Constituency 1, and Hon. Godknows Obein, member representing Ogbia Constituency 2 (represented by Rex Agala and David Inengite), also commended Citiboi for the impactful initiative.
Prize Presentation
- Champions: Oke FC – ₦2,000,000
- Runners-up: Otuoke Selected FC – ₦1,000,000
- Third Place: Okodi FC – ₦500,000
Individual Awards
- Best Goalkeeper (Golden Glove): Miracle Igiagia (Okodi FC)
- Highest Goal Scorer: Oladipo Hoorla (Otuoke Selected FC)
- Most Valuable Player (MVP): Itaribo Aye (Oke FC)
Each individual award winner received ₦100,000.
