By Aderonke Ojo
On behalf of the Edo State Football Association, I am proud to celebrate the successful kickoff of the maiden Edo Global Football Fiesta, which commenced on Friday 5th December , 2025 in Benin City with over fifteen (15) football clubs drawn from the Edo South Senatorial District.
This event, organised by Naija Global Sports Enterprise Solution in collaboration with the Edo Civil Society Organisations (EDOCSO) and supported by the Edo State Sports Commission and the Edo State Football Association, represents a significant and commendable stride in the advancement of grassroots football development within our state.
Of particular importance is the integration of a robust Anti-Drug Awareness Campaign into the programme. This initiative aligns with our Association’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare, discipline, and holistic development of young footballers across Edo State.
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Leftist Itietie, formally declared the event open, extending a warm welcome to all participating teams, dignitaries, and invited guests, while urging the young athletes to accord utmost seriousness to the sensitization component of the programme.
The keynote address was delivered on behalf of the Edo State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) by Deputy Commander of Narcotics, Mr. Akpabio A. David, who provided an in-depth exposition on the progressive stages and dangers of drug abuse. He reiterated the agency’s concern regarding the impact of substance abuse on the careers of young and promising sportsmen.
Representing the Special Guest of Honour and Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Desmond Amadin Enabulele, veteran footballer and Executive Director (Edo South), Mr. Baldwin Bazuaye, commended the organisers for the timely and impactful initiative. He further encouraged the players to remain disciplined, prioritise education, and abstain completely from drug use in order to secure their future.
As Chairman of the Edo State Football Association, I described the event as historic, noting with pride that such a forward-thinking initiative is taking place during my tenure. I commended the organisers for their foresight and reaffirmed the Association’s unwavering support for programmes that promote discipline, education, and positive youth engagement through football.
The Coordinator-General of EDOCSO, Leftist Omobude Agho, expressed appreciation to all partner organisations and reiterated the importance of drug-free living among young athletes.
The sensitization session concluded with a formal pledge from all participating footballers to abstain from drug abuse and uphold the values of discipline and integrity both on and off the field.
As the football matches continue in the coming days, the Edo State Football Association remains firmly committed to initiatives that enhance the physical, mental, and moral wellbeing of young players while advancing the overall development of football in Edo State.
Together, we reaffirm our collective resolve to eliminate drug abuse from the football ecosystem and to nurture a healthier, more responsible generation of athletes.