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By Barth Ikiebe in Abuja.
Nigeria’s prominent Real estate company, AIBEN property, has agreed to host the 4th edition of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council Football Tournament scheduled for 2026.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of AIBEN Property, Mr Andy Elerewe, gave the commitment during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the NUJ FCT Council, led by the Council Chairperson, Ms Grace Ike, in Abuja.
Mr. Elerewe applauded the NUJ’s initiative of leveraging Sports, particularly football, as a vehicle for fostering unity among journalists, security agencies, government institutions, and the private sector.
He noted the importance of the long-standing partnership between AIBEN and the media, which he said has promoted camaraderie and healthy competition.
Elewere stated, “As a demonstration of our continued support, AIBEN will provide its Maralago Sports Complex, located along the Kubwa Expressway, as the venue for the 4th edition of the tournament. We will also continue in our role as title sponsor”.
The AIBEN boss explained that the tournament offered more than just football matches; it is a vital platform for networking, team building, and engagement between journalists and participating organisations.
He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to initiatives that enhance social cohesion and contribute meaningfully to the wider Nigerian society.
As part of the visit, the NUJ FCT Council formally presented Mr Elerewe with the tournament’s promotional materials, including flyers, banners and a customised jersey number Ten.
Mr Andy Elewere expressed his enthusiasm for the event, promising to take to the pitch himself during the tournament.
In a remark, Ms Grace Ike commended AIBEN’s unwavering support, particularly during the tournament’s early years when it was organised solely by the Correspondents’ Chapel.
She noted that the tournament had since been adopted by the Council, elevating its status and impact.
“Football is a universal language that unites people. This tournament has become a major rallying point for media professionals and stakeholders across sectors,” she remarked.
Meanwhile, the 3rd edition of the NUJ FCT Football Tournament is scheduled to take place from 18th to 23rd August 2025 at the Area 3 Football Pitch and the Area 10 Football Field, both located near the Old Parade Ground in Abuja.
Participating teams will include: AIBEN Properties, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal High Court (FHC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Other participants are, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Nigeria Air Force (NAF) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
The tournament draw and press conference will be held on 12th August 2025 at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako by 10am.
