In a captivating display of grassroots football, Team Uvwie emerged victorious in the fifth edition of the Sheriff Jnr Oborevwori Invitational Soccer Tournament, defeating Team Okpe in a tense penalty shootout after a thrilling comeback in the final match held on Sunday at the Osubi Airport Football Pitch in Delta State, Nigeria.
The final was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Team Okpe dominating the first half and building a commanding 2-0 lead by halftime. However, Team Uvwie showcased extraordinary determination and resilience in the second half, netting two rapid goals to equalize the score just before the final whistle of regulation time. With the match deadlocked at 2-2, the outcome was decided in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout, where Team Uvwie's players demonstrated superior composure under pressure to clinch the title.
As reward for their triumph, Team Uvwie received a cash prize of ₦15 million, while runners-up Team Okpe were awarded ₦10 million. Team Ughelli North, securing third place, took home ₦5 million. These substantial prizes highlight the tournament's commitment to incentivizing excellence and supporting local talent development.
The annual Sheriff Jnr Oborevwori Invitational Soccer Tournament is organized and sponsored by the Sheriff Jnr Oborevwori Care Foundation, an initiative aimed at fostering grassroots football, youth empowerment, and community engagement in Delta Central Senatorial District. The event has grown significantly since its inception five years ago, evolving into a key platform for discovering emerging talents and promoting sportsmanship across various local government areas.
Sheriff Jnr Oborevwori, the founder and organizer, expressed satisfaction with the tournament's progress during his remarks at the closing ceremony. He described it as an evolving annual event that has seen consistent improvements year after year. "This is the fifth edition; we started five years ago. Last year was good, but this year is better, and we are already looking forward to something bigger and better next year," he stated. He praised Delta State as an enabling environment for such competitions, noting that the tournament benefits not only the participating teams but also the broader community by enhancing sports infrastructure and youth participation.
Oborevwori encouraged teams that fell short of the podium to maintain focus and persistence, affirming that every participant demonstrated commendable effort. "All the teams that participated gave their best, and I encourage them to do better next year. Next year is definitely going to be better," he added.
Beyond the competitive aspect, Oborevwori emphasized the humanitarian ethos driving the foundation. He explained that the tournament stems from a deep passion for supporting the people of Delta State, reaching out to those in need through various initiatives. Recently, the foundation distributed cash empowerment to petty traders as part of its broader community support programs, underscoring its dual focus on sports and social welfare.
The final drew an enthusiastic crowd, creating a vibrant atmosphere at the Osubi venue. Dignitaries in attendance included Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and his wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Limited, Chief Keston Pondi; former Nigeria Football Federation President Amaju Pinnick; Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori; and legendary Super Eagles stars Victor Ikpeba and Kanu Nwankwo. Numerous government officials, football administrators, and thousands of fans also graced the occasion.
A major highlight was the philanthropic gesture by the Sheriff Jnr Oborevwori Care Foundation, which presented 10 vehicles to deserving individuals from Delta State. Among the recipients was Arigbogha Emmanuel from Team Okpe, named the tournament's Most Valuable Player (MVP), who received a 2013 Toyota Corolla.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori personally handed the trophy to the captain of Team Uvwie, symbolizing official endorsement of the event. Medals for the top three teams were presented by Hon. Ejiro Waive (member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency), Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor (Speaker), and Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo (Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly).
The Sheriff Jnr Oborevwori Invitational Soccer Tournament continues to gain prominence as a cornerstone of grassroots sports in Delta State. By bringing together teams representing different local government areas in the Delta Central zone, it promotes unity, discipline, and healthy competition among youths. Over the years, it has served as a scouting ground for potential professional players, contributing to the state's rich football heritage.
This fifth edition featured intense matches throughout, with participating teams including representatives from areas such as Ughelli South, Ughelli North, Uvwie, Okpe, Ethiope East, Urhobos of Warri South, Sapele, and Udu advancing to knockout stages in previous reports. The growth of the tournament reflects increasing investment in local sports, aligning with broader efforts to engage young people productively and reduce social vices through athletic pursuits.
As the curtain fell on the 2025 edition, organizers and participants alike expressed optimism for future iterations, anticipating even greater participation, higher standards, and more impactful community outreach. The event not only celebrated football but also reinforced the values of perseverance, teamwork, and communal support in Delta State.
Sheriff Junior Oborevwori demonstrated a strong commitment to grassroots development and youth empowerment with the presentation of 10 brand new vehicles to beneficiaries across Delta State.
The vehicles were handed over on the final day of the Sheriff Junior Oborevwori Invitational Soccer Tournament, transforming the closing ceremony into more than just a football event. The initiative added a powerful social impact dimension to the tournament, drawing admiration from attendees and participants alike.
As the names of the beneficiaries were announced one after the other, the atmosphere at the venue became emotional and highly celebratory. Loud cheers erupted from the crowd as each recipient stepped forward to receive their keys, reflecting the joy and appreciation shared by supporters, fans, and well-wishers present at the event.
Among those empowered were Felix Ejenavi, popularly known as Beni Beko, who received a Toyota Venza; Ogheneyole UgagaOghene, also known as Ugaga Talks, who was gifted a 2013 Toyota Camry; and Rukeme Otiotio, known as Rukky Otiotio, who drove home a 2016 Toyota Camry. Ese Taire received a Toyota Corolla, while Success Ohwofa and Billy Egbe, also known as Billy Oghenebrume Egbe, were each presented with a Toyota Corolla and a 2013 Toyota Camry respectively.
Other beneficiaries included Obriki Matthew, also known as Matthew Obukohwo Obriki; Wilson Osemele Jnr, known as Wilson Junior; and Victor Omovo, all of whom received Toyota Corolla vehicles.
The empowerment initiative was carried out through the Sheriff Junior Care Foundation, an organization that has consistently delivered practical support to individuals and communities across Delta State. Earlier in September, during the birthday celebration of Sheriff Junior Oborevwori, the foundation empowered over 150 persons with financial support exceeding ₦175 million to boost businesses, enhance skills, and improve livelihoods.
With the latest vehicle donations, the foundation has further reinforced its commitment to providing meaningful and life-changing support to the people of Delta State.
