…As Afini FC Clinches Women’s Title
Football history was made at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa, as Eternal Grace Ministries Football Club emerged champions of the 2025 Bayelsa Governor’s Cup—the 7th edition of the prestigious Prosperity Cup—after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Advanced Dreams FA.
The high-stakes final was a battle of resilience, ending in a tense 0-0 stalemate after 90 minutes. Both sides created scoring opportunities, yet neither could break the deadlock. As the crowd held its breath, the fate of the match was decided by penalties.
In a thrilling shootout, Eternal Grace Ministries FC edged past Advanced Dreams FA 3-2, securing a historic second Prosperity Cup triumph, following their 2022 victory over Odioma FC of Brass. The win also came with a prize purse of 10 million naira, solidifying their dominance in Bayelsa’s football landscape.
Afini FC Crowned Women’s Champions
The women’s final proved just as gripping, as Afini Football Club battled Ezuoha Soccer Academy to a 1-1 draw in regulation time. The match was ultimately decided by penalties, with Afini FC prevailing 5-3, earning a well-deserved 5 million naira prize and etching their names into Prosperity Cup history.
Governor Diri Applauds Football Excellence
At the closing ceremony, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, hailed the players for their remarkable determination and skill, praising the competition’s role in nurturing local talent. He extended gratitude to the Director-General of the Prosperity Cup, Mr. Ono Akpe, and his team for their tireless efforts in organizing the tournament.
The Governor also acknowledged partners such as Premium Trust Bank and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for their contributions to the tournament’s success. Underscoring the state’s commitment to sports development, he announced that the construction of a FIFA-standard stadium is underway, affirming:
“We aim to be number one in sports in Nigeria.”
Grand Finale Draws Football’s Elite
The grand finale saw an assembly of esteemed dignitaries, including:
- Dr. Mrs. Gloria Diri, Wife of the Governor
- Comrade Philip Shaibu, Immediate Past Deputy Governor of Edo State & DG, National Institute for Sports
- Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, Secretary to the State Government
- Mr. Ibrahim Gusau, President, Nigeria Football Federation
- Mrs. Nkechi Obi, Chairperson, Nigeria Women’s Football League
- Austin Eguavoen & Samson Siasia, Former Coaches of the Nigerian National Team
- Members of the State Executive Council & Other Top Government Officials
With fireworks lighting up the Yenagoa skyline and fans roaring in celebration, the 2025 Prosperity Cup closed as one of the most electrifying tournaments in recent history—setting the stage for an even bigger spectacle in 2026!
