Air Force Lift NUJ FCT Football Trophy As Grace Ike Hails Unity Through Sport
Football once again proved its power to unite as the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) team emerged champions of the 2025 Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Football Tournament.
The week-long competition, which has become a growing tradition since its inception three years ago, brought together 12 teams drawn from security agencies, media bodies, and government parastatals all showcasing skill, resilience, and camaraderie on the pitch.
In a pulsating final, NAF overcame the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) 8–7 on penalties after a 1–1 stalemate in regulation time.
The Nigeria Customs Service secured third place with a convincing 4–0 win over the hosts, NUJ.
At the closing ceremony, Chief Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and CEO of Alliance Hospital, Dr Christopher Otabor, commended NUJ for sustaining the tournament, describing it as a platform for fitness, friendship, and collaboration across institutions.
NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, congratulated the Air Force side and applauded the efforts of all participating teams.
She paid special tribute to the lead sponsor, AIBEN Properties, and other partners whose support made the event possible.
Ike also saluted the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) for their spirited participation, saying they had made women proud.
“The tournament has shown us that football is more than just a game it is a platform for unity, resilience, and community,” Ike said.
The 2025 NUJ FCT Football Tournament has once again underscored the role of sport in building bridges, strengthening professional ties, and promoting healthy living across the Federal Capital Territory.