By Queen Kunde
Real estate giant AIBEN Property has reaffirmed its commitment to sports development by announcing it will host the 4th edition of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council Football Tournament in 2026.
The pledge was made by AIBEN’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Andy Elerewe, during a courtesy visit by the NUJ FCT Council delegation led by its Chairperson, Ms. Grace Ike, on Thursday in Abuja.
Mr. Elerewe hailed the tournament as a unifying platform for journalists, security agencies, government institutions, and the private sector, stressing that AIBEN would once again provide its Maralago Sports Complex along the Kubwa Expressway as the official venue.
“As title sponsor, we are not only opening our facilities but also reinforcing our long-standing partnership with the media,” he said. “This tournament is more than football; it is a space for networking, building friendships, and fostering peace.”
In a symbolic gesture, the NUJ presented Mr. Elerewe with promotional materials and a customised jersey bearing the number 10. The AIBEN boss, with a smile, hinted that he might lace up his boots to join the action when the tournament kicks off.
Ms. Ike applauded AIBEN’s consistent support since the tournament’s early days under the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, noting that its adoption by the Council has expanded its reach and prestige.
“Football speaks one language — unity,” she said. “This tournament has become a rallying point for media professionals and stakeholders from all walks of life.”
The 3rd edition will run from August 18 to 23, 2025, at the Area 3 and Area 10 football fields in Abuja, with teams from the FRSC, Police, Immigration, Customs, Federal High Court, NDLEA, SWAN, NAF, NUJ, and AIBEN all competing.
The draw and press conference are slated for August 12, 2025, at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako.
Since its inception in 2023, the tournament has been dominated by the Federal Road Safety Corps, champions in both previous editions.
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