The Founder Peter Ekwueme Development Foundation (PEDEF), Barr Peter Ekwueme has described the ongoing Peter Ekwueme Unity Cup as testament to the foundation’s commitment to youth development and empowerment.
Ekwueme made this known during a chat with journalists in Oko. He reiterated PEDEF’s commitment to purposefully engage the youths through rewarding and uplifting ventures such as sports, business and entrepreneurial development.
Addressing the gathering of talented young players and guests during the kick-off of the historic football event on Saturday, 26th April, 2025, at the Federal Polytechnic Oko field, Ekwueme stated that the tournament which had foreign and local observers present, will bring forth hidden stars, and enable young dreams edge closer to reality.
He further said that his foundation, PEDEF believes that real development begins at the grassroot, where every child’s dream is taken seriously and every young talent gets a real shot at greatness.
“Sustainable modern youth development is not a mere slogan for us. It’s a mission borne out of passion. So, as the tournament kicks off, let it ignite in us a new spirit of unity, of opportunity, and of pride in who we are and what we can achieve together”, Ekwueme added.
The PEDEF Founder further stated that the tournament will foster unity amongst the seven local governments in the Senatorial District. “Whether you come from Orumba North, Orumba South, Ekwusigo, Ihiala, Nnewi North, Nnewi South, or Aguata, we are brothers and sisters first. Bound by history and hope, we are unstoppable when we stand together”, he said.
The Kickoff match between Ihiala and Orumba North ended with Ihiala beating Orumba North 2:1.
Yesterday, the 30th April 2025, the Aguata team locked horn with Nnewi South at Agunwagba Primary School, Ekwulobia by 3pm. The match ended in draw of 0:0.
The tournament has prizes of One Million Naira, Five Hundred Thousand Naira and Three Hundred Thousand Naira for the top three teams.
