Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday donated a bus and the sum of ₦2 million to Pessu Primary School, Warri, following the school’s victory at the Zenith Bank Delta State Headmasters’ Cup Football Competition.
Pessu Primary School emerged champions after defeating Destiny Group of Schools, Ughelli, 2–0 in a thrilling final played at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba. The goals were scored in the closing 10 minutes of the encounter.
Destiny Group of Schools, Ughelli, representing Ughelli North Local Government Area, finished as runners-up and received a cash prize of ₦1.5 million.
Governor Oborevwori, who was represented at the event by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D., reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming grassroots sports into a viable pathway for youth development and excellence.
He described the competition, a collaboration between the Delta State Government and Zenith Bank Plc, as a strong symbol of unity, discipline, and character-building among primary school pupils across the state.
“I am delighted to join you at the grand finale of the Fourth Edition of the Zenith Bank Delta Headmasters’ Cup Football Competition,” the Governor said.
“This competition has become a symbol of unity, discipline, and excellence, promoting grassroots sports development among our primary school children across Delta State.
“At the heart of every progressive society is a strong educational system, which is why my administration places great emphasis on the holistic development of our children.
“Sports are not merely recreational activities; they are vital tools for building character, discipline, teamwork, and resilience—qualities essential for future leadership.”
Governor Oborevwori noted that his administration had strengthened school sports by making inter-house sports competitions mandatory in all primary and secondary schools across the state. He also recalled the successful hosting of the National Milo Basketball Competition finals, which, according to him, reinforced Delta State’s reputation as a hub for youth sports development.
He added that the Headmasters’ Cup had consistently served as a platform for discovering and nurturing young football talents, in line with the administration’s commitment to grassroots sports as a pathway to opportunity and excellence.
The Governor commended Zenith Bank Plc for its sustained sponsorship of the competition at both primary and secondary school levels, describing the support as a reflection of shared commitment to youth empowerment, education, and community development under the MORE Agenda of his administration.
He said the donation of a bus to the winning school underscored the government’s resolve to reward excellence and support effective school administration.
Addressing the pupils, Governor Oborevwori congratulated all participants, noting that they were winners for the passion, discipline, and sportsmanship displayed throughout the tournament. He also applauded the coaches, referees, head teachers, and teachers for their dedication to nurturing both talent and character.
Speaking earlier, a representative of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Obaka Igumbor, commended Governor Oborevwori for creating an enabling environment where sports and youth development continue to thrive. He said the Governor’s unwavering support for grassroots sports demonstrated that football remains a powerful tool for social inclusion, economic empowerment, and positive youth engagement.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Primary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, said the competition commenced in October and progressed smoothly through the preliminary stages to the semi-finals. She explained that although the finals were initially scheduled for an earlier date, unforeseen circumstances led to a postponement, adding that the Ministry was pleased to conclude the competition successfully.
In the final standings, Oghene Primary School, Okuokoko, finished third and received ₦1 million, while Godly Kings Primary School, Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area, placed fourth and received ₦500,000.
The event marked a colourful and memorable conclusion to the latest edition of the Zenith Bank Delta State Headmasters’ Cup.