The maiden edition of the OFUJI UNITY CUP 2026 officially kicked off at the Amaokwo Item Mini Stadium, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exciting football tournament for the 13 wards of Bende Federal Constituency.
Performing the ceremonial kick-off alongside the Mayor of Bende Local Government Area,Dcn. Uwabunkeonye Bassy and the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, the sponsor of the tournament, Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso (Ofuji), urged participating teams to embrace the competition as a platform to showcase their talents while promoting unity, sportsmanship, and peaceful coexistence.
Addressing the players, Dr. Anyaso reminded them that, despite competing on the field, they remain brothers united by a common heritage. He encouraged them to play with discipline, respect, and fairness, emphasizing that the tournament is designed to foster friendship and strengthen the bonds among the people of Bende.
The opening fixture featured an exciting encounter between Alayi Ward and Ugwueke/Ezeukwu Ward, with Ugwueke/Ezeukwu emerging victorious by 2–0.
A major highlight of the day was the arrival of Kanu Nwankwo, Chairman of Enyimba International Football Club and former Super Eagles captain. His presence electrified the stadium, drawing enthusiastic cheers from spectators and participants alike.
Speaking at the event, Kanu commended Dr. Anyaso for organizing the OFUJI UNITY CUP 2026, describing the initiative as a commendable investment in youth development and grassroots football.
“It’s not everywhere I go,” Kanu remarked. “I came because Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso is a good man who is passionate about empowering young people through sports.”
He encouraged the players to give their best throughout the competition, revealing that exceptional talents discovered during the tournament would have the opportunity to be considered for recruitment into Enyimba International Football Club.
The successful opening ceremony set the tone for what is expected to be a highly competitive and unifying tournament, reinforcing the OFUJI UNITY CUP’s vision of discovering football talents while promoting peace, unity, and community development across Bende Federal Constituency.
