By Tom Garba-Yola
The Football College of Education (FCE) pitch in Jimeta buzzed with excitement today as Barrister Wali Yakubu, Adamawa State’s Honorable Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, delivered an electrifying address to mark the grand finale of the 2025 Inter-Local Government Competition, dubbed the “Fresh Air Cup.”
We gather not just to witness a game but to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship, determination, and teamwork that football embodies
The event, held under the patronage of His Excellency, Governor Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, CON, brought together dignitaries, passionate fans, and talented athletes in a celebration of football and community spirit.
Addressing a distinguished audience that included Deputy Governor Prof. Kaletapwa George Farauta, Speaker of the Adamawa State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Bathiya Wesley, Secretary to the State Government Barr. Awwal D. Tukur, Chief of Staff Dr. Amos Egah, and members of the executive council, Barrister Yakubu hailed the occasion as more than just a match.
“Today, we gather not just to witness a game but to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship, determination, and teamwork that football embodies,” he declared, setting the tone for an unforgettable showdown.
The winning team will lift the coveted Governor’s Cup trophy and claim a cash prize of ₦2,000,000
The Commissioner praised the resilience and skill displayed by all participating teams throughout the tournament, calling the finalists “heroes to many” for their thrilling performances. The two teams set to clash in the final earned their spots through fierce competition, embodying the hope, ambition, and dreams of Adamawa’s youth.
The stakes couldn’t be higher for the finalists. Barrister Yakubu announced that the winning team will lift the coveted Governor’s Cup trophy and claim a cash prize of ₦2,000,000, a reward he described as a testament to their “countless hours of training, teamwork, and perseverance.” Each player from the victorious squad will also receive a medal, a “shining reminder of their remarkable journey.”
Runner-up will not leave empty-handed, with a trophy and ₦1,500,000
The runner-up will not leave empty-handed, with a trophy and ₦1,500,000 in prize money awaiting them, while the third-place team will pocket ₦1,000,000. “Whether you leave here with a trophy or with pride in your performance, know that each match has showcased your talent and dedication to the game we all love,” Yakubu told the athletes, saluting their contributions to the season.
The Commissioner reserved special praise for Governor Fintiri, whose vision and support brought the tournament to life. “Your unwavering commitment to excellence has played a pivotal role in making this all possible,” he said, acknowledging the Governor’s transformative influence on sports development in the state.
He also extended gratitude to the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), led by Hon. Engr. Suleiman Gangkuba, for their sponsorship. “Your contribution goes beyond financial support; it reflects your dedication to fostering talent, promoting teamwork, and creating unforgettable experiences,” Yakubu noted, emphasizing the broader impact of their investment.
Your unwavering commitment to excellence has played a pivotal role in making this all possible
As the teams prepared to take the field, Barrister Yakubu rallied the crowd to “settle into our seats, feel the energy, and get ready for an unforgettable showdown.” With the whistle moments away, he concluded with a resounding wish: “May the best team win.”
The Fresh Air Cup 2025 final promises not only a clash of skill and strategy but a celebration of Adamawa’s vibrant sporting culture. As the players lace up and the stands fill with anticipation, all eyes are on the FCE pitch for a match that will crown a champion—and etch new legends into the state’s football history.
