Debutant Balogun Fulani Micro FInance Bank FC defeated the defending champions, First Bank FC, to emerge winners of the 30th edition of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) All Financial Institutions Football Competition held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium (Nest of Champions), Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Saturday.
Balogun Fulani MFB FC upset First Bank FC by 5 goals to 4 in penalty shoot – out after a one all draw at full time.
Earlier, Federal Ministry of Finance team defeated Lavun Pam MFB team by 7 goals to 4 in an explosive third place match that also ended in penalty shoot-out.
At the medals presentation ceremony, the CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele commended the players and officials for the high standard of play exhibited by the players.
Speaking at the event the Governor represented by the Deputy Governor (Financial System Stability), Dr. Okwu Joseph Nnanna noted that the CBN took up sponsorship of the completion as part of its Social Corporate Responsibility and assured that the Bank was committed to the promotion of football development in Nigeria. He noted that the annual event had grown in number and diversity of participating financial institutions as could be seen with MFBs and other financial institutions posing serious challenge to banks who had hitherto dominated the competition.
The Governor implored all other financial institutions yet to participate in the competition to enter for next year’s edition. This, he noted, would promote the health of all stakeholders in the financial system and ultimately ensure higher productivity among workers in the sector.
Mr. Emefiele expressed gratitude to the Government of Akwa Ibom State, State Commissioner of Sports and the Football Association Chairman for assisting the Bank in securing the magnificent stadium. He was also grateful to ex-Super Eagles International and former coach of the Super Eagles, Under-23 National Team and Olympic Dream Teams IV and VI, Samson Siasia who graced the event as a special guest. The Governor was appreciative of all the players, their officials, fans and members of the press for their various roles in the success of the competition.
