*Grace Ike Congratulates Champions, Hails Sponsors
By Queen Kunde
The Nigeria Air Force (NAF) football team has emerged champions of the 2025 Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Football Tournament after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The hotly contested final ended 1–1 in regulation time before NAF sealed an 8–7 win on penalties to lift the coveted trophy. The Nigeria Customs Service side secured third place after defeating the hosts, NUJ, with an emphatic 4–0 victory.
This year’s tournament, the third since inception, brought together 12 spirited teams drawn from the Nigerian Army, Air Force, Customs Service, NDLEA, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), NUJ, and other agencies.
Chairman of the closing ceremony, Dr. Christopher Otabor, Chief Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and CEO of Alliance Hospital, applauded the NUJ for sustaining the tournament, noting that it has fostered unity, fitness, and collaboration among security agencies, government institutions, and media professionals.
NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, congratulated the NAF team for their victory while commending all participants for showcasing skill, resilience, and sportsmanship. She extended special appreciation to the lead sponsor, AIBEN Properties Limited, led by Chief Dr. Andy Elerewe, alongside other partners and football officials, for their unwavering support.
“It is with immense pride and joy that we celebrate not just the beautiful game of football, but the unity, talent, and spirit this tournament has brought to our chapter,” Ms. Ike said. “Over the past week, we have witnessed incredible teamwork and dedication. Football has once again proven to be more than a game it is a platform for connection, resilience, and community.”
She further lauded the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) for their active participation, describing their involvement as a source of pride for women in journalism.
The NUJ FCT Football Tournament continues to stand out as a platform for strengthening professional ties, promoting healthy living, and building lasting bonds across diverse institutions.