BENIN CITY: The 3rd edition of the “Kada Unity Cup,” a football tournament for military and paramilitary clubs, kicked off on Monday at the Chief Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion Mini Stadia, Etete, with Governor Monday Okpebholo pledging to recruit standout players into the state-owned Bendel Insurance FC.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the tournament, which runs from February 2 to 16, 2026, Okpebholo said his administration’s focus on talent discovery and youth empowerment has yielded positive results. He highlighted the revitalisation of the Edo State Sports Commission, whose mandate is to nurture grassroots sports and reclaim Edo’s legacy of sporting excellence.
Through his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, the governor described the 2026 edition, featuring 12 teams, as “more than a sporting competition.” He noted, “It is a celebration of unity, collaboration, discipline, and sportsmanship—values that define our military and paramilitary institutions, vital to the peace, security, and development of our society.”
Okpebholo emphasised the tournament’s role in identifying talents for the state, saying, “The essence of Edo State Government being here is to harness some of the talents that will be utilised for the good of the state.”
He encouraged participating teams, noting, “Teamwork is the cornerstone of success. The cooperation, resilience, and strategic coordination you display here mirror the qualities needed to overcome challenges in our communities and nation. Your participation also promotes physical fitness, mental wellness, and inter-agency synergy, essential to your professional duties.”
The governor also commended former Edo State Governor Chief Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion, convener of the tournament, for fostering unity and camaraderie among Nigeria’s armed forces and paramilitary agencies through sport.
Okpebholo revealed plans to replicate the talent hunt across all 18 local government areas and high schools, promising that discovered talents would receive professional training under Bendel Insurance FC through the Edo State Sports Commission.
The opening match saw Correctional Service FC overturn an early goal by Lucky Lawrence of the Nigerian Airforce FC, scoring three goals in less than ten minutes in the second half, signalling a promising attacking display.
The 12 teams competing in the tournament include Nigerian Airforce FC, Nigerian Correctional Service FC, NDLEA FC, Nigerian Army FC, NSCDC, EFCC, Nigerian Fire Service, FRSC, DSS, Immigration, NYSC FC, and defending champions Nigeria Police Force FC.
The event drew a large audience, including Edo State Sports Commission Chairman Amadin Desmond Enabulele, members of Edo FA, sports enthusiasts, and commanders and officials of the participating teams.
