NAF emerges winners of 2025 NUJ FCT Football Tournament

…As Ms Grace Ike congratulates champions, hails AIBEN Properties and others

The 2025 Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Football Tournament has ended on a high note, with the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) team crowned champions.

This year’s edition, the third since inception, featured 12 teams, including the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Air Force, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), and NUJ, among others.

In a thrilling final match, NAF defeated NDLEA 8–7 on penalties after the full-time ended in a 1–1 draw. The Nigeria Customs Service team claimed third place after beating the host, NUJ, 4–0.

Chairman of the closing ceremony, Dr Christopher Otabor, Chief Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and CEO of Alliance Hospital, praised the NUJ for organising the tournament. He noted that the competition has helped foster unity, fitness, and collaboration among security agencies, government parastatals, and members of the media.

The NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Ms Grace Ike, congratulated the Air Force team on their victory and commended all participating teams for their display of talent and sportsmanship. She also expressed gratitude to the lead sponsor, AIBEN Properties Limited, led by Chief Dr Andy Elerewe, as well as other sponsors, partners, and football officials who contributed to the success of the tournament.

In her goodwill message, Ms Ike said: “It is with immense pride and joy that I stand before you today to celebrate not just the beautiful game of football, but the unity, talent, and spirit this tournament has brought to our chapter.

“Over the past week, we have witnessed incredible teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship from all the competing teams. Football has once again proven to be more than a game — it is a platform for connection, resilience, and community.

“None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our sponsor, AIBEN Properties. Your commitment to community development and youth empowerment aligns perfectly with our vision at NUJ FCT, and we are deeply grateful.

“As we celebrate our champions today, let us also celebrate the spirit of unity that made this event special. May these matches inspire us to continue fostering teamwork and greater bonds within the NUJ family and beyond.”

She also used the occasion to commend the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) for their participation, noting that they had made women proud through their active involvement in the competition.

The 2025 NUJ FCT Football Tournament has once again highlighted the role of sports in strengthening professional ties, promoting healthy living, and deepening collaboration across key institutions.