Maiden edition of Benin Unity Cup Kicks Off Today at Crescent Sports Complex

Benin, Edo – The much-anticipated maiden edition of the Benin Unity Cup will officially get underway today Thursday with a colourful opening ceremony and an exciting curtain-raiser between Ovia North-East Local Government and Ikpoba-Okha Local Government teams.

The event, scheduled to commence at 3:00 pm at the Crescent Sports Club Complex on Iriri-Aruogba Road, Benin City, promises to be a celebration of football, unity, and grassroots sports development in Edo State.

Organising Committee Chairman and Edo State Football Association boss, Mr. Fred Erhunmwunsee, confirmed that all is set for a befitting launch.

“We are excited to deliver a tournament that will unite our people through the power of football. Everything is in place for a memorable opening ceremony and a competitive opening match,” Erhunmwunsee said.

The Executive Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, is billed to grace the occasion as the Special Guest of Honour, while the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele; and the Honourable Commissioner for Youth, Charity Amanyaemwo, are among the dignitaries expected.

The man behind the vision and sole sponsor of the competition, Senator Neda Imasuen (representing Edo South Senatorial District), will personally perform the ceremonial kick-off alongside other formalities.

After today’s opener, group-stage matches will continue across venues, with several fixtures lined up for Saturday, November 22.

The road to the title will reach its climax on Saturday, December 20, 2025, when the third-place match and the grand finale will be staged at the iconic Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.

The semi-finals are fixed for December 13.

Football enthusiasts in the ancient city are already buzzing with excitement as the Benin Unity Cup aims to discover raw talents, foster peace, and strengthen bonds among the various communities in the Benin-speaking local government areas.

Kick-off for today’s opening match: 4:00 pm (after the opening ceremony).

All roads lead to Crescent Sports Club Complex.