Sports
PFA Games: FCMB and Nupemco Shine on Matchday 1 as Defending Champions Trustfund Pension Struggle
The fourth edition of the Pension Fund Administrators (PFA) Games kicked off with thrilling action at the scenic Turf Arena Sports Center (TASC). Known for hosting Nigeria’s national teams, the lush green venue witnessed an intense Matchday 1 featuring 10 teams competing fiercely. Industry captains gathered in large numbers to enjoy the games and cheer their teams.
Defending champions Trustfund Pension struggled to find their rhythm in the opening matches. A goalless draw against Norrenberger was a warning they failed to heed, as Tangerine ApT Pension, recovering from an earlier loss to NNPC Pension, upset Trustfund with a hard-fought 1-0 victory.
Former champions FCMB made a statement of intent, dominating their opening matches with remarkable performances. They demolished Norrenberger 4-1 in their first game and crushed NNPC Pension 6-0 in a ruthless display of skill and determination.
Nupemco also showed their seriousness, carrying their confidence from the pre-tournament press briefing to the pitch. They began their campaign with a 2-1 win against Premium Pension and followed it up with a narrow 1-0 victory over NPF Pension.
Elsewhere, PenCom edged AccessArm Pension 1-0 in their opener but were held to a goalless draw by NPF Pension in their second outing. Tangerine ApT Pension bounced back in style with a 1-0 victory over Trustfund Pension after their initial setback.
Speaking earlier, Mrs. Oluwakemi Ugwu, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Nigerian University Pension Management Company Limited (NUPEMCO), emphasized the importance of balancing work with leisure. “As the popular saying goes, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Beyond work, we must remember that health is wealth. Events like this allow staff to bond, laugh, and network, fostering a sense of care within the organization,” she explained.
She highlighted the value of annual participation in the games, noting, “When our staff come out here, they unwind, connect with colleagues from other PFAs, and enjoy a change of pace. Life isn’t just about work; sometimes, it’s about having fun. Additionally, events like this serve as great publicity for our PFA.”
On the topic of winning, she added, “It’s not solely about victory, though winning would be fantastic. For us, the priority is the bonding experience. But, of course, I’d be thrilled if we brought home the cup.”
Similarly, the Executive Director,
of Trustfund Pension,Dr Akinsola
noted the positive impact of having pension fund regulators involved in the games. “Their presence adds a new dimension to the event. It fosters camaraderie among PFAs, helping us to connect, network, and build stronger relationships,” he said.
Matchday 1 Results
AccessArm Pension 0-0 Premium Pension
NNPC Pension 0-6 FCMB
NPF Pension 0-1 Nupemco
Trustfund Pension 0-0 Norrenberger Pension
PenCom 1-0 AccessArm Pension
Tangerine ApT Pension 1-2 NNPC Pension
Nupemco 2-1 Premium Pension
Norrenberger Pension 1-4 FCMB
PenCom 0-0 NPF Pension
Tangerine ApT Pension 1-0 Trustfund Pension
The competition promises more excitement as the PFA Games progress, with teams eager to showcase their skills and claim the coveted title.
Sports
Vipers VC celebrate captain Esther Mbah on birthday
Cyril Ogar
Vipers Volleyball Club have felicitated with their captain, Esther Mbah on the occasion of her birthday.
In a statement signed by the Vipers VC Team Manager, Suraj Abiodun Jabar; the club described Mbah as a leader who has consistently demonstrated excellence both on and off the court.
The statement also praised the Nigerian international for her valuable contributions to the club.
The statement mentioned her role in guiding Vipers to a second-place finish at the 2026 CAVB Zone 3 Club Championship in Ghana.
It read: “The management of Vipers Volleyball Club wants to celebrate Esther Mbah on the occasion of her birthday.
“She has been an asset to Vipers since joining the club, demonstrating outstanding commitment, dedication and leadership.
“Her contributions to the growth and success of the team have been invaluable.
“We appreciate her efforts, professionalism and the positive influence she continues to have on her teammates. We wish her more successful years ahead, good health and greater achievements.”
The club concluded its birthday message by wishing the experienced player continued success as she leads the team towards achieving more honours.
Beyond her achievements at club level, Mbah won a bronze medal for Nigeria at the 2024 African Games in Ghana, further establishing herself as one of the country’s accomplished volleyball players.
She has also secured qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, adding another milestone to her growing career.
In their separate messages, board members of Nigeria Volleyball Federation, James Datuhun and Chinedu Onikeku (OLY) as well as Coordinator of Vipers VC, Samuel Onikeku wished the Nigeria international a glamorous birthday.
They hailed Esther Mbah for exhibiting a high level of leadership trait since joining the team.
The stakeholders prayed for good health and ultimately success as she prepares for the Beach Volleyball event at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
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