By Johnkennedy Uzoma, Owerri

The Nigeria 2025 Game On Afrika Tournament came to an exciting close in Owerri at the weekend, with Team Enugu emerging champions after a tense penalty shootout victory over hosts Team Imo.

The final, played at Okenalogho Secondary Technical School in Obowo, ended goalless in regulation time before Team Enugu triumphed 5–4 on penalties to claim the national title. They will now represent Nigeria in a continental showdown against the winners of the Ghana edition to determine the overall champion of the 2025 Game On Afrika Tournament.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the CEO of the Game On Afrika Tournament, Prince Emeka Nwankwo, expressed delight at the success of the event, describing it as the fulfilment of a long-held family vision.

“I was actually executing what my father told me. He said to me, ‘My son, I want you to do that which is permanent and voluntary, that will enhance the society and also our family name in all respects.’ I think I have achieved all that today. I am very, very happy,” he said.

Nwankwo reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining the tournament as a platform for grassroots football development across Africa, noting that teams from Nigeria and Ghana would continue to compete for regional honours.

He also extended appreciation to Project Manager Lady Jenny Anusiem and the coordinators whose contributions ensured a smooth event—Neville Okere (Imo), Felix Nwosu (Enugu), Femi Ajilore (FCT), and Dr. Abolore Abdul (Lagos). He further acknowledged the efforts of media personnel, volunteers, and the participating clubs from both countries.

The closing ceremony featured several individual awards. Team Enugu’s goalkeeper, Orisakwe Chibuike Fortune—an Imo-born talent from Njaba LGA—won the Best Goalkeeper Award for his outstanding saves, including crucial stops during the final. Team Imo’s dynamic midfielder, Sorochi Stanley Nwachukwu, was named Best Player of the Tournament for his creativity, leadership, and consistent brilliance throughout the competition.

The grand finale drew dignitaries from across Imo State and beyond. Among those present were the Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Obinna Onyeocha (represented by Marcel Obinna Nwachukwu), HRH Martins Keke, Oparanadim I, and HRH Eze John Ifeanyichukwu Okafor, Oke I of Umuoke (represented by Deputy President General Meribe Micheal), alongside Ugoeze Patrick Uwalaka and other community leaders and sports enthusiasts.

With Team Enugu set for continental duty, organisers say plans are already underway to ensure the next edition builds on the success of this year’s competition.

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History will be made in Lagos as the city becomes the first on the African continent to host the world’s all-electric powerboat championship, the E1 Series, from October 3 to 5, 2025.

The announcement marks a major milestone for Nigeria and Africa, as the E1 Lagos Grand Prix brings cutting-edge water sport, innovation, and environmental sustainability to the continent’s shores for the first time.

Sharing the news on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the event as “a demonstration of innovation and progress, showing how sport can inspire sustainable solutions for the future.”

He added: “It is also a celebration of the creativity and resilience that define our people. This occasion gives us the opportunity to showcase Lagos to the world as we know it: welcoming, dynamic, and determined to embrace the future with confidence.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu also extended an open invitation to Lagosians and the global community to witness the groundbreaking spectacle.

“The E1 Lagos Grand Prix is a chance for Lagos, and for Africa, to stand proudly on the global stage,” he said.

Traditionally renowned for its passion for land-based sports like football, Africa is now set to explore its aquatic potential as the UIM E1 Series, presented by PIF, transforms Lagos’ waterfront into a thrilling race track.

Scheduled for October 4–5, the E1 Lagos Grand Prix promises a unique blend of speed, culture, and sustainability, turning the city’s coastline into a symbol of Africa’s readiness to embrace innovation and green technology in sports.

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Pastor Enoch A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has unveiled a full-size stadium and an Olympic-size 50-metre swimming pool at the Peaceville International Academy, located within the Redemption City of God, Ogun State.

The esteemed cleric was accompanied by his wife, Pastor Folu Adeboye, along with top church leaders including Pastor Joseph Obayemi; RCCG National Overseer, Pastor Sunday Akande, and the management of Peaceville International Academy led by Head of School Dolapo Fatoki.

The event was graced by several board members of the school, including Leke Adeoye, Olugbenga Omojola, Ayoola Jolayemi, Noah Osato, and Mrs Busola Ogunsiji.

Reflecting on his past, Pastor Adeboye lamented the lack of such facilities during his university days and the general scarcity of quality sports amenities across the country.

“This kind of well-grassed stadium and serene environment were not available in universities during our time. Remarkably, God has made this possible in a secondary school, showing that He is on our side,” he remarked.

He offered prayers for those who contributed to the realization of these facilities and expressed his vision for the school to become a global brand.

In her welcome address, Pastor Mrs. Adeboye, the founder of the college, described the institution as a legacy made possible by God’s support.

She thanked her husband for his unwavering support in making the school a reality and emphasized the importance of the sports facilities in moulding Godly champions.

The unveiling ceremony also featured a novelty match to celebrate Pastor Adeboye’s 83rd birthday, with him performing the ceremonial kick-off for the match between Redemption City FC and Region 1 FC. The home team triumphed with a 4-0 victory.

Head of School Dolapo Fatoki highlighted that the facilities would be judiciously used to enhance the physical well-being of students and position the school as a hub for sports development in Ogun State and Nigeria.

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