Sports

Inaugural Kingdom Unity Games: Dunamis FC Lift Maiden Trophy in Abuja

Published

3 weeks ago

September 13, 2025

Joel Ajayi

Team Dunamis FC have carved their place in history as the first-ever champions of the maiden Kingdom Unity Games—a faith-driven sporting event held in Abuja to promote unity among churches and provide a platform for youth talent.

The competition, which drew young athletes from across the Federal Capital Territory, was more than just football. Organizers emphasized its mission to strengthen ties between churches, foster peace, and harness sports as a tool for national cohesion and talent discovery.

The final match delivered high drama from the start. Dunamis FC stunned ECWA Wumba with a goal straight from the opening kick and went on to display remarkable defensive discipline. Despite unrelenting pressure and strong support from their fans, ECWA Wumba failed to find an equalizer. At full time, Dunamis FC lifted the historic trophy, cementing their name as champions of the inaugural edition.

Earlier in the day, ECWA Kwali claimed third place with a narrow 1–0 win over ECWA Karasana in the playoff.

Speaking after the final whistle, convener of the Games, Ambassador Solomon Omonokhua, stressed the vision behind the initiative. “This competition is about more than football—it’s about building bridges between churches, fostering peace and unity, and giving our youth a stage to display their gifts. We believe many of these players can go on to attract scouts, join professional clubs, and bring pride to Nigeria,” he said.

The federal government also threw its weight behind the Games. Representing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Professor Bolaji Bernard commended the organizers, noting that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“At a time like this, we must channel the energy and creativity of our young people into nation-building. Sports remain one of the most effective tools for unity, peace, and development, and that is why we fully support initiatives such as the Kingdom Unity Games,” Bernard affirmed.

With the successful conclusion of its maiden edition, hopes are high that the Kingdom Unity Games will become a permanent fixture on Nigeria’s sporting calendar—serving not only as a breeding ground for future football stars but also as a unifying force across communities and faith groups.

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Sports

Nigeria Jets Out Tuesday for 2025 Hockey AFCON as Federation President Engr Nkom Backs Teams for Podium Finish

Published

4 hours ago

October 5, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

With the 2025 Hockey African Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to take place in Egypt from October 11 to 18, both the men’s and women’s national hockey teams are set to depart Nigeria on October 7, brimming with confidence and determination to make the nation proud.

The President of the Hockey Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Engineer Simon Nkom, speaking after a series of friendly matches at the Hockey Pitch, Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, said the teams’ early preparation and intensive training camps have positioned them for a successful outing in Egypt.

“In sports—whether it’s hockey, handball, or basketball—fitness is key. That’s why we began camping weeks ago to build the players’ strength and resilience ahead of this major competition. This is the African Cup of Nations—the highest level of hockey on the continent. We’ve prepared well, and I’m confident our teams will finish on the podium,” he stated.

Nkom highlighted the significant progress Nigerian hockey has recorded in recent years, noting that the country’s world ranking improved from 56th to 36th, while in Hockey 5s, Nigeria now stands 12th globally.

“A few years ago, people barely knew hockey existed in Nigeria. Today, our women’s team ranks 3rd in Africa, and the men’s team is 4th. This growth is a product of deliberate grassroots development and consistent effort,” he added.

To ensure smooth participation and avoid past challenges of late arrivals at tournaments, the federation has finalized logistics for early departure.

“We’ve made all arrangements for the teams to leave early to acclimatize and play friendly matches before the competition begins. The players are motivated, relaxed, and ready to give their best. By God’s grace, they will return home with their heads held high,” Nkom assured.

The HFN President also lauded the federation’s board members for their commitment and teamwork over the past four years, which he said has greatly contributed to the sport’s steady rise in Nigeria.

Head coach Ndana Baba Abdullahi, who oversees both the men’s and women’s teams, praised the federation’s support and lauded the players’ work ethic throughout the extended training camp.

“We’ve worked very hard — morning and evening sessions, tactical drills, conditioning. The players have responded excellently. We started with 35 players and are now down to the final 18 who will make the trip,” Abdullahi said, adding that the early arrival in Egypt would give Nigeria a crucial psychological and tactical edge.

Men’s team captain, Michael John, expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness and determination to make history in Egypt.

“We’re perfectly fine — we’ve trained hard and prepared well,” he said. “We’re just waiting for the whistle to blow. By God’s grace, we won’t disappoint our country or those who worked hard to send us there.”

Similarly, women’s team captain, Alfa Cornelius, echoed optimism about the team’s prospects.

“We’ve been camping for over a month, and the coaches have done a wonderful job. We’ve worked hard to match our opponents in both strength and skill. I’m 100% confident that we’ll perform excellently in Egypt,” she said.

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