Celebrating the Granite Jubilee of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbenedion, the Esama of Benin @90 Veterans Football Tournament is set to kick off today, August 23, 2024, with a series of exciting matches that will see veterans from across Edo State take to the field.
The tournament, organized by the Edo Football Association will celebrate the Esama of Benin’s 90th birthday, as it promises to be an exciting tourney of those who grew to meet the exploits of Chief Gabriel Igbenedion.
The opening day will feature four exciting encounters. The first match is scheduled for 10:00 AM, where Igbinedion United will face Crescent Sports Club in what is expected to be a closely contested battle. Both teams are eager to start the tournament on a winning note, and fans are looking forward to an intense game.
At 12:00 PM, Uphill Veterans FC will go head-to-head with Edo All Stars. This match is set to be a display of tactical prowess and teamwork, as both sides aim to outmaneuver each other on the pitch.
UBTH Staff will face off Uzebu All Stars by 1:30pm as both sides will clamour for glory. The final match of the day will take place at 3:00 PM, with UWA All Stars taking on Panther FC. Both teams are ready to put on a show for the fans, with hopes of securing a victory that will boost their confidence as the tournament progresses.
As the Esama of Benin @90 Veterans Football Tournament begins, the games are to celebrate the Granite Jubilee of the Esama and his exploits. He is a prominent business magnate, presides over a vast empire that includes an extensive international property portfolio and ownership of Independent Radio (92.3 FM) and Television. He founded Igbinedion University, Nigeria’s first private university, located in Okada town, and owns a multitude of hotels. His influence extended to aviation with the now-defunct Okada Air, which once boasted a fleet of over 40 aircraft. Additionally, the Esama has built numerous churches, including a Grand Catholic Cathedral, and established several private hospitals throughout Nigeria.