KMK Academy Claim Obong Isong Isang Memorial Championship Title as Tournament Reaffirms Mandate of Youth Football Development

KMK Academy emerged champions of the 2025 Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship on Friday evening, defeating Blessed Stars Football Academy 4–2 on penalties in a thrilling finale that underscored the rising standard of grassroots football in Akwa Ibom State.

The final, played at a packed Ikot Ekpene Stadium, lived up to its billing as both sides produced an intense contest befitting the legacy of Obong Isong Isang, a revered football development pioneer in the state. The match ended 1–1 at full time before KMK Academy showed greater composure from the spot to secure the coveted trophy and a cash prize of ₦500,000.

Blessed Stars, who impressed throughout the competition, settled for second place and ₦300,000, while Dynamic SPMD claimed third position after a hard-fought 4–2 shootout victory over Indomitable Strikers earlier in the day.

Beyond the team honours, the grand finale showcased some of the tournament’s standout talents. Blessed Stars’ shot-stopper, Samuel Uchenna, was named Best Goalkeeper, courtesy of Engr. Uwem Umoh. KMK Academy dominated the individual categories, with Divine Ewah crowned Most Valuable Player—an award personally sponsored and presented by Hon Idongesit Ntekpere—while Omobowale Bakare secured the Golden Boot, proudly backed by Mr James Etokebe.
Indomitable Strikers earned the Best Behaved Team award for their exemplary conduct on and off the pitch.

The finale attracted a large gathering of political leaders, football administrators, and community stakeholders, reflecting the tournament’s growing prestige. The Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Mr Samuel Umoh, led the FA board, while the widow of the late Obong Isong, Barr. Ime Isang, continued her long-standing support for the championship.

Also in attendance were the Commissioner for Sports, represented by Mr James James; Ikot Ekpene LGA Chairman, Hon Aniefiok Nkom; His Grace, Most Rev Dr Etim Udoekong; political figure Sir Emem Akpabio; former lawmaker Rt Hon Idongesit Ntekpere; SEDC Board Member Adede Kufre Inima Okure (represented); SWAN Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Akpan; and Referees Association Chairman, Elder Joseph Bassey, among other dignitaries.

Their presence underscored the relevance of the tournament as a platform for talent development and community engagement.

This year’s edition reinforced the Akwa Ibom State FA’s commitment to discovering and nurturing young footballers while preserving the lasting legacy of the late Obong Isong Isang, whose contributions continue to shape the football landscape.

With their victory, KMK Academy join the elite roll of champions of a competition steadily gaining prominence across the state and beyond, as the next generation of stars continue to emerge from its stage.

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