By Solomon OKPO
EKET, Ekpene Ukpa emerged victorious in the 2025 Eket Urban 2 Unity Cup after a dramatic 4–3 win on penalties against Idua, following a tense goalless draw in regulation time.
The final, held on Saturday, October 11th, at the Eket Township Stadium, marked the climax of the week-long grassroots football tournament that brought communities together in a celebration of sport, unity, and youth development.
The tournament kicked off on Sunday, October 5th, at the Holy Child Primary School Field in Idua Eket, with sponsorship from Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey. The initiative aimed to promote discipline, talent discovery, and community engagement among young people across Eket Local Government Area.
Fans packed the stadium for the grand finale, which showcased high-energy football and community spirit. The match between Ekpene Ukpa and Idua ended in a deadlock after full time, sending the contest to penalties where Ekpene Ukpa held their nerve to lift the trophy.
Prominent dignitaries, including the Dean of Commissioners in Akwa Ibom State, Honourable Frank Archibong, Commissioner for Sports Elder Paul Bassey and his wife, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports Mrs. Rosemary Ubia, and several ministry directors, were in attendance.
Elder Bassey praised the teams for their performance and sportsmanship, reaffirming the government’s commitment to grassroots sports development in line with Governor Umo Eno’s youth-focused agenda.
“The Unity Cup is more than just a tournament; it’s a platform to inspire and engage our youth,” Bassey said. “We will continue to support initiatives that harness their potential and promote peace through sports.”
Honourable Archibong commended the Sports Commissioner for spearheading the initiative, expressing hope that the Unity Cup will evolve into a full-scale local government event encompassing more communities.
The 2025 edition of the Eket Urban 2 Unity Cup leaves a lasting legacy, not only for its thrilling matches but for its role in fostering unity, community pride, and the rise of future football stars from the grassroots.
