By Paul Joseph
Abuja Ex-Pro have emerged champions of the 2026 Abuja All-Stars International Invitational Veterans Football Tournament after defeating Timeless Titans 3-1 in the final of the sixth edition of the annual competition.
The Saturday victory capped an event that brought together 21 teams comprising former professional footballers and ex-internationals, providing a platform for fitness, friendship and networking among retired players.
Vice President of All-Stars International Football Club, Antai Effiong, said the competition had continued to grow since its inception, offering former footballers an opportunity to remain physically active and maintain their connection with the game.
Effiong, however, attributed the reduction in participating teams to the late inauguration of the Local Organising Committee, which affected the time available for registration and preparations.
He recalled that previous editions had accommodated as many as 24 teams, expressing confidence that earlier preparations would attract more clubs for the seventh edition in 2027.
The vice president commended the organising committee for coordinating the competition despite challenges relating to security and officiating.
He also acknowledged the support of the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, particularly in providing access to sporting facilities and assisting with aspects of the tournament’s organisation and sponsorship.
Effiong further appreciated sponsors who had supported the competition over the years, particularly the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, whom he identified as one of its longstanding supporters.
He explained that the tournament was established to foster relationships, encourage networking and promote healthy lifestyles among former footballers as they advance in age.
According to him, the initiative allows retired players to reconnect with former teammates, establish new relationships and participate in activities that promote their physical and social well-being.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Umar Abubakar Aliyu, described the 2026 edition as another significant step in the tournament’s growth, noting that it featured several debutants alongside former internationals and ex-professional players.
Aliyu disclosed that about six former international players participated in the competition, alongside other ex-professionals.
He said the tournament was designed primarily for football veterans aged 40 and above, providing them with an opportunity to maintain their fitness while strengthening relationships beyond the football pitch.
The chairman disclosed that a few minor injuries were recorded during the competition but were promptly managed by the medical team.
He identified Charles Agadu, MFR, a former national team doctor, and Dr Ibrahim Emagani among the medical personnel who attended to participants.
Aliyu said the organising committee would review feedback and recommendations from participating teams to address identified shortcomings and improve subsequent editions.
He added that lessons from this year’s competition would guide preparations for the seventh edition in 2027.
Captain of the victorious Abuja Ex-Pro, Luka Dauda, popularly known as Baba 11, described the triumph as a remarkable achievement, particularly given what he considered the team’s inadequate preparation before the competition.
Dauda attributed the victory to perseverance, teamwork and faith, expressing gratitude to God for helping his side secure the trophy.
He also praised the organisers for creating a platform where former professional footballers could reconnect with the sport, exercise and maintain healthy relationships.
The captain acknowledged challenges involving security and officiating during the competition but commended the organisers for managing the situation and ensuring its successful completion.
He said the tournament remained important to retired footballers because it offered them an opportunity to stay active, maintain their health and share memorable experiences with former teammates and family members.
Meanwhile, outstanding players and officials were recognised for their performances during the competition.
Jamilu Suleiman of Ex-Professionals emerged as the highest goal scorer after finding the net seven times, while his teammate, Donatus John, received the Best Goalkeeper award.
Other award recipients included Chinoso Christopher, jersey number 50, who won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award; George White, named Man of the Match (MOTM); and Platini Giwa, who received the Coach of the Tournament honour.
The individual recognitions highlighted the contributions of players and technical officials who distinguished themselves throughout the competition.
The Abuja All-Stars International Invitational Veterans Football Tournament has continued to provide a platform for former footballers to sustain their involvement in the sport after retiring from active professional competition.
Beyond the competition for trophies, the initiative seeks to promote healthy living, strengthen relationships among former players and create opportunities for social interaction and professional networking.
Following Abuja Ex-Pro’s triumph, attention is expected to shift to the seventh edition in 2027, with the organisers expressing optimism that earlier preparations, increased participation and improved administration will make the next tournament even more successful.
Leave a Reply