The stage is set for the kickoff of the second edition of the Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship, following the draws and press briefing held by the Akwa Ibom State Football Association (AKSFA) on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Speaking at the event, AKSFA Chairman, Mr. Samuel Umoh, said the tournament was conceived not only to immortalize the late football legend Obong Isong Isang, but also to serve as a veritable platform for discovering young football talents across the state.
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“This championship reflects our commitment to grassroots football development in Akwa Ibom. We’re honouring the memory of Obong Isang Isang while creating opportunities for young players to showcase their potential,” Umoh said.
He announced a significant increase in prize money to further boost players’ motivation, with winners now receiving ₦500,000, runners-up ₦300,000, and third-place finishers ₦150,000.
This year’s edition will feature six academies: Pillars Investors, NNS Jubilee, Blackpool Academy, Indomitable Strikers, Dynamic SMD, and Blessed Stars Academy. The competition will adopt a league format, with all teams playing each other before the top four progress to the semi-finals.
The opening-day fixtures promise thrilling encounters:
Pillars Investors vs NNS Jubilee
Blackpool Academy vs Indomitable Strikers
Dynamic SMD vs Blessed Stars Academy
Matches in the league stage and semi-finals will hold at the Uyo Township Stadium, while the third-place and final games are scheduled for November 14, 2025, at the Ikot Ekpene Stadium, the hometown of the late Obong Isang Isang.
In her remarks, the wife of the late Obong Isong Isang commended the FA for sustaining the tournament’s vision and raising its standard. She described it as an excellent initiative that blends football development with education and pledged continuous support for the project.
The event was graced by AKSFA Board Members, members of the Isang family, former football administrators, media representatives, and team officials.
The Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship, now in its second year, continues to stand out as one of Akwa Ibom’s most promising grassroots football programmes, building bridges between legacy and the future of the game.
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