By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The much-anticipated 2025 Ibusa Annual Football Competition kicks off today, Wednesday, December 18, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., setting the ancient town of Ibusa (Igbuzo) agog with excitement as the tournament celebrates 40 years of uninterrupted existence and community unity.
The opening match promises fireworks as Ogbeowele FC squares off against Anyalobum FC, a thrilling repeat of the 2024 final. While Ogbeowele appears well-prepared ahead of the clash, Anyalobum has, in recent times, proven to be a formidable side and a hard nut to crack. Football lovers are therefore assured of an exciting and competitive encounter as both teams battle for early supremacy. Best wishes have been extended to both sides for a successful and injury-free match.
Established in 1985, the Ibusa Annual Football Competition has grown from a modest grassroots initiative into one of the longest-running and most consistent community football tournaments in Delta State. The competition was founded by the visionary sports enthusiast and community patriot, Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu, whose passion for youth development and unity laid the foundation for what has become a cherished tradition in Igbuzo.
Over the past four decades, the tournament has transcended sports, evolving into a powerful platform for community bonding, youth engagement, and cultural reunion, particularly during the Christmas and New Year festivities when sons and daughters of Ibusa return home from far and near.
The 2025 edition is especially historic, marking 40 years of resilience, continuity, and grassroots sports excellence—a rare achievement in community-driven sports administration. This year’s competition is proudly supported by North West Petroleum Ltd, MTN, and the sons and daughters of Ibusa, whose collective backing reflects the strong sense of ownership and pride attached to the tournament.
While Mr. Kwasa Amatokwu remains the pillar of the competition, he is strongly supported by a dedicated Sports Executive Committee led by Haji Chukwuyem Ojeih, alongside the unwavering cooperation of the people of Ibusa. Together, their commitment has ensured that the tournament has survived changing times, economic challenges, and administrative transitions.
As the ball rolls off today, the celebration goes beyond football. It is a tribute to 40 years of perseverance, unity, and vision, and a reaffirmation of Ibusa’s enduring spirit. What was once dismissed as an experiment has become a respected institution and a model of consistency for grassroots sports across the state.
Indeed, Igbuzo proudly celebrates Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu and the enduring legacy he has bequeathed to present and future generations, as the town once again rallies around the beautiful game.
