The 2025 edition of Zenith Bank Delta Principal Cup commenced with Omu Boys Secondary School, Ibusa and Zappa Basic Secondary School Asaba playing two two draw amidst the presence of top government and bank officials, as well as a delegation from the Delta State education sectors and supporters of both schools.
Omu Boys opened scoring in the 11 minutes of the first half but could not maintain the early lead despite many scoring opportunities as Zappa Basic Secondary drew level towards the end of the first, and increased the tally to two.
At the resumption of second half, Omu boys equalized to make it two goals apiece.
Captains of both sides expressed satisfaction with the officiating, saying that their players did their best.
”The match went well, and glory be to God that our opponents did not triumph over us. Our next match will be better as we set our eyes on the Principal Cup ”, Captain Bernard of Omu Boys stated.
“We expected a straight win but due to the we played in the field, the match ended in a draw. Notwithstanding, we are hoping to bring the Principal Cup home”, Eze Ifechukwudi of Zappa Basic Secondary School assured.
In a remark, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori commended Zenith Bank for living to its corporate social responsibility of developing youth football.
Oborevwori represented by Dr Kingsley Emu, Secretary to the State Government, said, ”Without doubt, football is the biggest sports in Nigeria, and I am glad that Zenith Bank in collaboration with the Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has consistently organized this football tournament which is a veritable breeding ground for future stars.”
”I expect that this year’s competition will be as exciting and memorable as the previous editions. I must commend Zenith Bank for this noble and worthwhile investment in this youth football development. Indeed, Zenith is a model in corporate social responsibility”
”This partnership has yielded a lot of results, and we expect even better. We have a long list of people who have benefitted , and who have been made by this football platform, and are doing well in several countries of the world”
”I expect that Zenith Bank will evolve from just this programme, judging from the successes recorded so far, to building a sports academy in the state”
”Apart from the obvious objective of helping to discover new talents, football tournament like this promote discipline, team work, physical fitness, goal setting, endurance, mentorship, and personal discipline among participants . These are invaluable skills required for successes in life. When our youths imbibe these qualities early in life, it becomes easier for them to work in a corporate setting or political environment”
Zenith Bank Zonal Branch Manager, Dr Ifeanyi Atama said, ” The partnership between Zenith Bank and the Delta State Government underscores our commitment to unlocking the potentials of our youths who are vital to our community development”
Among those who witnessed the opening match were array of Commissioners including the State Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mrs Rose Ezewu, Housing Commissioner , GodKnows Angele, sponsors representative, Dr Ifeanyi Atama, the Consultant, Tony Pemu, and representatives of Delta State Football Association.
