KIFA director-general to grace Pastor Umo Eno U-17 Unity Cup final
The Director-General of the Kanu Nwankwo Football Academy (KIFA), Hon. Dabo Ajibade, will lead a delegation to the grand finale of the 5th Pastor Umo Eno Easter Under-17 Unity Cup on
The Director-General of the Kanu Nwankwo Football Academy (KIFA), Hon. Dabo Ajibade, will lead a delegation to the grand finale of the 5th Pastor Umo Eno Easter Under-17 Unity Cup on Friday, 24 April 2026, at the Uyo Township Stadium, with kick-off set for 2:00 PM.
Football legend Kanu Nwankwo and Ajibade are both confirmed to attend the final, which is organised by the Grassroots Sports Federation (GRASOF). The occasion will coincide with a birthday celebration for Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno.
The tournament, which began on 20 March 2026, has featured over 600 under-17 players drawn from all 31 local government areas of Akwa Ibom State. GRASOF says more than 45 players have been identified and profiled as outstanding talents in the course of the competition.
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The KIFA delegation is expected to use the finals to scout players for admission into the academy, offering a direct pathway from grassroots football in Akwa Ibom to national and international competition.
GRASOF national president Hon. John Ekpenyong said the attendance of Kanu and the KIFA delegation reflected the national significance of the tournament.
"This is what the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency Governor Pastor Umo Eno is about – taking youths off the streets and giving them a platform to shine," Ekpenyong said. "Having Papilo and Hon. Dabo Ajibade here to also celebrate our Governor's birthday tells these young boys that their dreams are valid."
GRASOF Akwa Ibom chairman Comrade Ita Peters said the Ministry of Youth and Sports, APC stakeholders, former internationals, and members of the national under-17 coaching crew were also expected at the final.
The Pastor Umo Eno Easter Under-17 Unity Cup is held annually to promote peace, unity, and youth development in Akwa Ibom State.
