RismadarVoice Reporters, April 23, 2026
Football development in Delta State has received a major boost, with the Chairman of the Delta State Football Association, Chief Godwin Adode, declaring that the game is experiencing a steady upward swing.
Adode asserted while speaking to journalists in Kwale after the semi-final matches of the Arthur Ferdinand Federation Cup, noting that the standard of play witnessed throughout the tournament reflects significant progress in the state’s football landscape.
According to him, the competition has highlighted a remarkable improvement in quality, with the gap between amateur teams and their professional and semi-professional counterparts now significantly narrowed.
“This year’s tournament has shown that football in Delta State is growing rapidly. The level of competition is high, and the difference between amateur and professional sides is no longer obvious,” he said.
The DFA chairman pointed to the semi-final encounters as evidence of the competitiveness of the tournament. Defending champions Warri Wolves and last year’s finalists Sapele Lions both secured spots in the final, but not without strong resistance from their opponents.
Sapele Lions, in particular, were pushed to the limit, narrowly edging Morak FC of Uvwie via a penalty shootout after a tightly contested match.
Adode commended all participating teams for displaying exceptional talent and sportsmanship, emphasising that the tournament has once again demonstrated the abundance of football potential within the state.
He also disclosed that the association is working on measures to support club sides financially and structurally, to make them more sustainable and competitive.
The DFA boss further praised Arthur Ferdinand Engineering for its sponsorship of the competition, describing the partnership as a key driver in enhancing the quality and visibility of the tournament.
Looking ahead, Adode revealed that the final will take place on April 26 at the Southern Delta University Stadium in Ozoro, with kickoff scheduled for 12 noon.
The event is expected to attract several former Nigerian internationals, including Taribo West, Victor Agali, Victor Ikpeba, Oedema Fuludu, Samson Siasia, and Sam Sodje, among others.
