The second edition of the Patience Umo Eno Memorial Football Tournament kicked off to an inspiring start on Sunday, September 27, at Afaha Ekpenedi in Esit Eket Local Government Area, drawing enthusiastic crowds of sports lovers and community members.
The ceremonial kick-off was performed on behalf of the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, by the wife of the Secretary to the State Government Dr. Inemesit Uwah.
Speaking through her representative, Lady Obareki warmly applauded the organiser of the tournament, the special assistant to the Governor on Support Groups, Mr Victor Etangkanga for his thoughtful initiative, in engaging the Youths of Esit Eket, positively.
She ,particularly commended him for keeping the cherished memory of Pastor Patience Eno alive through a platform that positively channels the energy of young people.
Highlighting the unifying power of sports, the coordinator emphasised that the football tournament serves as a vital tool for fostering peace, solidarity, and youth development across the grassroots.
She encouraged the participating teams to display a high level of sportsmanship, discipline, and camaraderie throughout the competition.
The opening march between Ward two – Edo, and Ward 10, Afaha Ekpenedi; ended goalless as the two teams displayed their mastery of the leather game, amidst cheers from spectators, setting an optimistic tone for the weeks of competitive matches ahead.
In the delegation from the office of the First Lady were the wife of the Commissioner for Youths, Dr Goodness Ekanem; the wife of the Chairman of Urue Offong Oruko, Mrs Elizabeth Uno; and the Vice Chairman of Etinan Local Government Council, Hon. Imaobong Michael.
Others who watched the match were the Vice Chairman of Esit Eket, Pastor Eddy Etangkanga, who stood in for the chairman of the Council, and friends of Mr Victor Etangkanga.
A total of 30 matches have been scheduled for the tournament for the participating teams, drawn from the 10 wards of the Local Government Area, leading to the finals on October 25, 2026.