CROSS STATE, CALABAR – Ugep All Stars defeated Talent Football Club of Calabar by two goals to nil in the maiden edition of the Prince Otu Veteran Super League at U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar.
The match, which attracted fans and dignitaries, saw Ibiang Etta and Iwara Mike Edet score the decisive goals, giving Ugep All Stars a deserved victory in the historic tournament.
Governor Bassey Edet Otu, retired Colonel P.A.M. Ogar, former Governor of Kwara State, and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, were among dignitaries who witnessed the soccer event.
Speaking after the match, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar commended the standard of play displayed, stressing that the Veteran Super League would become an annual event to promote fitness, discipline, and social cohesion among older players.
“The quality of football on display today proves that experience still counts,” Ironbar said. “This initiative will not only entertain but also encourage healthy living among our veterans.”
He described Governor Bassey Otu as a sports-loving leader who has demonstrated foresight by creating opportunities for retired athletes to remain active, engaged, and relevant within their communities.
Yakurr Local Government Chairman, Honorable Yibala Igri, appreciated the Governor’s efforts, adding that the Super League was timely and would help veterans socialize, recreate, and stay physically and mentally fit.
“The governor has shown true leadership by remembering our veterans,” Igri noted. “Through this league, they can maintain their health while inspiring young athletes to pursue sports ethically.”
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Dr. Ironbar urged organizers to uphold transparency in the competition, emphasizing that the values of fairness and integrity must guide veteran football to sustain public trust and long-term success.
He stressed that situational ethics in sports required balancing competition with welfare, reminding stakeholders that veterans should not be exploited but supported with proper facilities, medical care, and recognition.
Observers said the Prince Otu Veteran Super League would serve as a unifying platform, bridging generational gaps, while reinforcing discipline, teamwork, and ethical sportsmanship in Cross River State and beyond.
Meanwhile, Team Cross River departed for the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, with 63 athletes and 34 officials, aiming for a stronger performance than the 17th position in the last edition.
Special Adviser on Sports Development, Mr. Ekanem Ekpenyong, encouraged athletes to put in their best, assuring that medals won would be rewarded by Governor Otu, who remains committed to motivating sportsmen and women.
He urged the athletes to listen to their coaches, stressing that discipline, honesty, and fair play were essential in sports. “If you stay committed, Cross River will rank among the top ten states,” he said.
Ekpenyong emphasized situational ethics in youth sports, noting that proper mentorship, transparent officiating, and equal opportunities were critical to sustaining young athletes’ trust in the system and ensuring lasting career development.
The Special Adviser described sports as a tool for shaping character, adding that beyond winning medals, Cross River’s participation must reflect accountability, team spirit, and respect for rules of fair competition.
He appealed to officials to lead by example, saying: “When coaches, referees, and administrators uphold ethical standards, they inspire athletes to compete with dignity and integrity.”
Analysts noted that both the Veteran Super League and the Youth Games shared a common theme: using sports not just for entertainment but also as an ethical platform to promote unity, health, and discipline.