Senator Abdul Ningi will represent Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the opening ceremony of the third edition of the Senate President Cup U-18 football tournament in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, tomorrow.

Ningi, who chairs the Senate Committee on Sports Development, is expected to attend the ceremony at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium on behalf of the Senate President.

According to a statement by the tournament coordinator and National President of the Grassroots Sports Federation of Nigeria, John Ekpenyong, this year's competition promises to be bigger and more competitive, with over 500 young footballers expected to participate.

The tournament will also feature National U-17 coaches and international scouts seeking to identify promising talents for future national team opportunities.

Ekpenyong described the competition as part of Akpabio's enduring contribution to grassroots sports development, noting that the Senate President had used football for over 15 years as a tool for youth empowerment and national unity.

He recalled Akpabio's involvement in sports development during his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State, his sponsorship of the Niger Delta Peace Cup while serving as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, and his continued support for grassroots sports as Senate President.

Also speaking on the significance of the tournament, Chairman, Local Organising Committe and President of the Global Peace Movement International, UK, Dr Mike Uyi, said grassroots sports competitions such as the Senate President Cup provide a vital platform for discovering young talents, promoting discipline and fostering unity among youths. He noted that sustained investment in youth sports development could help channel the energy of young people into productive activities, create opportunities for emerging footballers and contribute to peace and social cohesion. 

Uyi urged stakeholders to support initiatives that combine sporting opportunities with mentorship and career development, stressing that empowering young people through sports is an investment in the future of the nation.

He said the Senate President has paid his dues for humanity and expressed appreciation to him for delegating Senator Ningi to represent him, describing the chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports Development as a respected sports enthusiast.

Also expected at the opening ceremony is the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development, Prince Adeyinka Adeboye.

Meanwhile, Barrister Seyi Tinubu is scheduled to receive the Best Grassroots Sports Personality award at the tournament's grand finale on November 1, 2026.