By Progress Godfrey

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) defeated the Nigerian Customs Service 5–4 on penalties after a goalless draw to win the maiden Promiseland Estates Workers’ Day football tournament in Abuja, claiming the N20m top prize.

The one-day event featured eight teams from public and private institutions, including NSCDC, NNPC Ltd Staff Multipurpose Cooperative, NRS Halal Cooperative Society, White Crescent, Abuja Selected and Promiseland Estates Champions. Customs finished second with N15m, while White Crescent beat Abuja Selected on penalties after a 1–1 draw to secure N10m for third place.

The Chief Executive Officer of Promiseland Estates, Ambassador Lawrence Oloche Emmanuel, said the tournament was organised to celebrate workers and give back to society.

He emphasised that the competition, decided largely by penalties, highlighted strong competition among participants and would be sustained as an annual event.

“For us, it’s giving back to society. It’s a token of love to the residents of Abuja and the workers of the Federal Capital Territory. Nothing unifies people like the game of soccer. That’s why we’re here today,” he said.

Emmanuel added that the initiative reflects the company’s effort to contribute beyond real estate, adding that citizens also have a role in national development.

Highlighting the housing gap in the country, the CEO noted that the firm plans to deliver 100,000 housing units within 10 years, with over 30,000 units already completed in five years.

Executive Director, Promiseland Estate, Ambassador Gift Emmanuel Lawrence, said the tournament promotes social impact and strengthens engagement with residents. She said the initiative is also to encourage wider participation in the firm’s investment offerings,

Participants described the tournament as competitive and well organised, urging the organisers to expand future editions.