Niger River Basin Secondary School Triumphs in 6th Annual FUTMinna Chancellor’s Football Tournament

Niger River Basin Secondary School, Minna, has emerged champions of the 6th Annual Chancellor’s Inter-Secondary School Football Competition, organized by the Federal University of Technology, Minna.

In the fiercely contested final match, the River Basin side, displaying exceptional skill and determination clinched the championship title with a lone goal against Day Secondary School, Kwaso who also put up a commendable performance.

The tournament, which was part of activities marking the University’s 34th Convocation Ceremony and 43rd Founders’ Day kicked off on January 24, 2026, and concluded on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the University Sports Complex, Main Campus, featuring 16 secondary schools from within and outside the host community.Hilltop Model School, Minna earlier won the third place 2 - 0 against Maitumbi Secondary School.

Earlier. in a novelty match, the University’s Senate Team got the better of the Unicorn Team (female team), with goals from Professors. Olurotimi Kemiki and Femi Olugboji.

Speaking during the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, commended the participating schools and players for their discipline and sportsmanship. He urged young footballers to take their education seriously alongside sports, stressing that academic knowledge is essential even in understanding the rules and ethics of sports.

In his welcome address, the University Sports Chairman, Engr. Dr. Alkali Babawuya, appreciated the University Management and all participating schools for supporting the competition. He noted that the tournament provides a platform for discovering young talents and nurturing future stars, adding that the competition progressed successfully to the final stage.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Uno Essang Uno, applauded the players for their impressive performances and encouraged students to balance academics with sports in order to become better leaders in the future.

The event featured an award ceremony, where Abdulrahman Abubakar and Musa Nuhu both from Niger River Basin Secondary School emerged the best player and best goalkeeper respectively.Solomon Dauda from hilltop Model School clinched the highest goal scorer award, while Mr. Odeon Jacob from Police Secondary School, Minna won that of the best coach. 

The University Senate Team and the Female Team were also recognized for their outstanding performance. 

The successful completion of the tournament marks a significant milestone in FUT Minna’s commitment to youth development, sports excellence, and the discovery of future football talents.