By Victor Otigbu

The inaugural edition of the Ethnic Cultural Unity Football Cup championship is set to kick off across the states of Nigeria’s South-South region.

According to a statement by the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Engr. Asohro Erhieyovwe—popularly known as Asology in Delta State—the inter-ethnic youth football tournament aims to promote peace and unity among the various ethnic youth groups in the region.

The statement emphasized that the competition is also designed to nurture young football talents and prepare them for professional careers, while using sports as a powerful tool for peacebuilding, unity, and the celebration of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

“This event will bring different ethnic groups together to underscore the importance of peaceful coexistence. It will educate youths to embrace one another and reject hate speech, discrimination, and violence, which hinder growth and development,” the statement read.

Erhieyovwe also highlighted that many state sports commissions in the South-South—and Nigeria at large—have become inactive in youth development. He said the tournament will serve as a platform for local footballers to be scouted for opportunities in international leagues.

Participation is open to various ethnic youth groups across the South-South zone, including the Ikwerre, Ogoni, Esan, Etsako, Benin, Afenmai, Isoko, Efik, Ekpeye, Etche, Ukwuani, Ibibio, Owan, Akoko-Edo, Bekwarra, Ika, Ndoki, Anioma, Annang, and others. Each group is expected to select its best male players to form a team.

Erhieyovwe called on the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Youth Wing, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), the Itsekiri National Youth Council (INYC), and other cultural organizations to embrace the initiative and prepare their football teams and cultural display groups.

He added that the opening and closing ceremonies will feature vibrant cultural performances showcasing the traditions and heritage of the South-South people.

The tournament is planned as an annual event and will be hosted on a rotational basis by different states within the region. All matches will be played in the host state by the participating ethnic youth teams.