Grassroots football in Edo State received a major boost on Thursday as the Edo State Football Association (Edo FA) confirmed the fulfilment of a long-standing promise by Hon. Romeo A. Omoike, who formally donated newly instituted trophies for the 2025/2026 Edo FA Cup Tournament.
The football enthusiast and youth advocate presented two giant trophies to the Chairman of the Edo FA, Mr Fred Newton Erhunmwunse, in Benin City on 29 January 2026, reinforcing his commitment to the development of football at the grassroots level.
The presentation took place at the Edo FA Chairman’s office during the first-half break of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) home fixture between Bendel Insurance FC and Barau FC, adding colour and symbolism to the occasion.
Hon. Omoike, a philanthropist from Etsako West Local Government Area, Auchi, is widely known for his sustained support for youth empowerment through sports. The donation of the new Edo FA Cup trophies, the Association said, reflects his confidence in the vision, leadership and developmental agenda of the Edo FA.
Speaking at the presentation, Omoike commended the leadership of the Association, noting that he had closely followed its activities and was impressed by the level of organisation, transparency and dedication to football development across the state.
“I am always pleased to identify with the activities of the Edo State Football Association under the leadership of its Chairman, Mr Fred Newton Erhunmwunse, his Vice Chairman, Board Members and other members of the Association,” he said. “I have closely observed the progress of the FA, and I am proud of the positive developments being recorded.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting grassroots football in Edo State and pledged to do more to assist the Association’s programmes and initiatives. Omoike also assured that football development and youth engagement through sports would be prioritised should he assume office as Chairman of Etsako West Local Government Area.
Expressing confidence in the leadership of the Edo FA Chairman and his Board, he said sustained football activities would be organised throughout his tenure in collaboration with the Association, to harness youth talent and promote community development.
Omoike described football as a powerful tool for youth development, social inclusion and community building, aligning his support with the broader developmental vision of the Edo State Government under Governor Monday Okpebholo.
The Edo FA, in its response, said the donation was inspired by the Association’s consistency and commitment to football development, and expressed deep appreciation to Omoike for the gesture.
The Association also called on corporate organisations, institutions and well-meaning individuals to partner with it in promoting grassroots football, talent discovery and youth empowerment across Edo State.
Reaffirming its mission, the Edo FA said it remains committed to fostering sustainable football growth through structured programmes that will continue to position Edo State as a strong force in Nigerian football.