The Maitama Branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has emerged champion of the 2025 National Engineering Football Competition, defeating the Ibadan Branch 3–0 in a thrilling final match held on Sunday at the University of Ibadan Sports Complex.
The Abuja Branch clinched third place after overcoming their Osogbo counterparts, completing the top three positions in this year’s edition.
The football tournament was the grand finale of the Annual Engineers’ Combined Sporting Event, a week-long gathering that featured marathon races, chess games, indoor competitions, and cultural activities aimed at promoting physical fitness and unity among engineers across the country.
In the dancing category, Mrs. Queen Chibueze of the Maitama Branch won first place, followed by Mr. Musa Jidangbun, also from Maitama, while Mrs. Ayotunde Akanni of the Osogbo Branch finished in third place.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, the President and Chairman-in-Council of the NSE, Mrs. Margaret Oguntala, said the National Annual Engineering Games were established to ensure that engineers remain physically fit to perform their duties effectively.
Oguntala, the first female President of the Society, recalled that between 2010 and 2011, the NSE became concerned about the rising cases of engineers falling ill, collapsing, or sustaining injuries while on duty.
“Because of this, we felt it was important to come together and encourage members to participate in sports. Our job involves a lot of mental work, and to function optimally, we must be physically fit,” she said.
She noted that the NSE now has 93 branches across Nigeria and in the diaspora, and the annual games have become a platform for networking, strengthening friendships, and fostering collaboration among engineers.
“With these games, we see the camaraderie that exists among our branches. It has become a networking platform for us, not just a football event,” Oguntala added.
She also urged engineers to prioritise regular exercise and healthy living, while calling on government at all levels to deliberately support and sponsor sports initiatives.
Similarly, the Chairman of the NSE Sporting Committee, Mr. Olaolu Ogunduyile, said the annual event has become an avenue for younger engineers to interact with senior professionals for mentorship, guidance, and career development.
The colourful finale also featured the presentation of awards to distinguished Nigerians, cultural dance displays, and a performance by the police band, adding glamour to the ceremony.