By Our Reporter,The Nation
Copyright thenationonlineng
Over 1,000 secondary schools in Delta State have keyed into the bold vision of upgraded quality of match officiating, discipline and professionalism that have been introduced to the 8th edition of the Zenith Bank Delta Principals’ Cup Competition.
The Consultant and Chief Responsibility Office (CRO) of Hideaplus Nigeria Limited, Tony Pemu, supported by the Zenith Bank representatives, led by Dr Ifeanyi Atama and the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in the state, Mrs Rose Ezewu, on Tuesday in Asaba said since inception in 2017, the competition has produced champions and evolved into one of the most anticipated grassroots sports initiatives in the Nigeria.
He said the competitors include over 1,000 accredited public schools and hundreds of private schools that will lock horns with a kick-off slated for September 18, 2025 between Zappa Mixed Secondary School, Asaba, and Omu Secondary School, Ibusa, on the Football pitch of St Patrick’s College, Asaba.
Mrs Ezewu noted that Zenith Bank has driven the competition with unwavering spirit, discipline and determination, to emerge as the most celebrated secondary school sports platform.
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Pemu also said: “The competition has fuelled grassroots sports development, fostered inter-school networks, and inspired both academic excellence and personal progress among participating students.”
He added that the cash awards has increased from N1m to N2m for first position, while N1.5m, N1m and N500,000 respectively for 2nd , 3rd and 4th positions.
The Commissioner (Mrs Ezewu) charged the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to curb cheating and embrace fair play so that true champion can emerge.
She praised Zenith Bank Plc for the eight years of sponsorship, highlighting past participants excelling abroad like Ekemini Imen (Denmark), Okiki Vwegba and Okiki Oruese (Russia), Vwaire Owhigho Clement (Sunsel FC) and others at Morak Football Academy, Warri.
Some of the past winners include Master Care International School (2017), Marvel International School (2018), and Ogbromo Secondary School (2024).
