Building Materials FC of Abakaliki emerged champions of the 2025 Defend FON Urban Unity Cup after a dominant 3-0 victory over AE-FUTHA in the final match held at the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, Abakaliki.
The football tournament, organized to promote youth development and community engagement, was sponsored by Dr. Victor Chidi Nwoke, Chairman of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly Committee on Youth Development and Sports, and member representing Abakaliki North Constituency.
The final drew a large crowd and featured notable appearances from political and sports leaders across the state. Speaking before the kick-off, Hon. Nwoke emphasized that the competition reflects his commitment to youth empowerment through sports, while also appreciating the support received from his constituents during the 2023 general elections.
The former Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator Sam Egwu, officially kicked off the final match and praised the initiative, encouraging Hon. Nwoke to sustain his efforts in youth and sports development.
The event also featured remarks from the APC State Chairman and chairman of the occasion, Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha, who commended Hon. Nwoke’s contributions to community building. Deputy Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Hon. Chinedu Onah, lauded the competition for fostering unity among young people in the state.
Other dignitaries in attendance included the Chief of Staff, Prof. Emmanuel Echegu; Commissioner for Works, Engr. Lebechi Mbam; Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Hon. Oguzor Offia Nwali; and Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Hon. Richard Idike, among several others who emphasized the role of sports in promoting peace and development.
Building Materials FC received the star prize of ₦1,000,000, while AE-FUTHA earned ₦500,000 as second runners-up. Timber Shade FC finished third and took home ₦300,000.
The 2025 Defend FON Unity Cup was held in honor of the leadership and achievements of Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonnia Nwifuru.