Urhobo College, Effurun, has emerged champions of the 2025 edition of the Zenith Bank/Delta State Principal’s Cup after defeating Ogbe-Ijaw Grammar School, Ogbe-Ijaw, 2–1 in a thrilling final match played on Thursday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.
With the victory, Urhobo College received a brand-new bus and a cash prize of ₦2 million, while Ogbe-Ijaw Grammar School took home ₦1.5 million as runners-up.
Speaking at the grand finale, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, congratulated the winners for their outstanding performance. Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, the Governor said the tournament was in line with his MORE Agenda, which focuses on youth development and creating opportunities for every young Deltan to succeed.
“We believe that education goes beyond the classroom. The lessons you learn on the field: teamwork, discipline, and perseverance are the same values that lead to success in life,” the Governor said.
He expressed gratitude to God for the successful completion of the competition and commended all the teams for displaying talent, unity, and the spirit of sportsmanship.
“Today, we have witnessed more than a football match; we have seen talent, teamwork, discipline, and true sportsmanship,” he said.
“The thrilling contest between Urhobo College, Effurun, and Ogbe-Ijaw Grammar School, Ogbe-Ijaw, has been a joy to watch. You have both shown great skill, courage, and determination, and I am proud of you all.”
Governor Oborevwori congratulated the champions for their hard work and urged them to remain humble and focused.
He also commended the runners-up and other participating teams for their dedication and strong performances.
“To all our young athletes, keep training hard, listen to your coaches, and never neglect your studies. Education is the foundation for every great dream,” he advised.
The Governor further announced that the Delta State Government would soon introduce a special programme to identify and nurture football talents discovered through competitions like the Principal’s Cup, with the aim of developing players for opportunities at state, national, and international levels.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, described the championship as a classroom-supportive event that continues to promote unity, discipline, and excellence among students across the state.
She noted that since its inception, the tournament has grown significantly, helping to groom young footballers who have gone on to represent Delta State and Nigeria in international competitions.
The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, was among the dignitaries who attended and watched the match.
