The draw ceremony for the second edition of the prestigious Prince Otu Veterans Super League was held on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the U.J. Esuene Sports Complex, Calabar, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the biggest veterans sporting competitions in Nigeria.
The event brought together representatives of participating teams, members of the Main Organizing Committee (MOC), sports administrators, and stakeholders from across Cross River State, all united by a shared vision of promoting sports development and veterans’ welfare.
Welcoming participants to the ceremony, the Chairman of the 2026 Prince Otu Veterans Super League, Emmanuel Ironbar, represented by the Co-Chairman and Chairman of the Cross River State Sports Commission, Etta Lawrence, assured all stakeholders of a well-organized and memorable competition.
According to him, the Prince Otu Veterans Super League is designed to become a reference point for veterans’ sports competitions in Nigeria.
He noted that the tournament is unique as it incorporates multiple sporting disciplines, making it the first initiative of its kind in the country.
Lawrence explained that the vision behind the competition aligns with the people-oriented leadership philosophy of the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu.
He stated that the governor’s commitment to inclusive development inspired the creation of the league, aimed at positively impacting the lives of former athletes and sports enthusiasts who have contributed immensely to the growth of sports in the state.
He emphasized that the competition goes beyond winning medals and trophies, describing it as a platform for unity, friendship, recreation, and recognition of veterans who have proudly represented Cross River State in various capacities over the years.
The Prince Otu Veterans Super League is open to participants aged 45 years and above and will feature competitions in football, table tennis, lawn tennis, badminton, handball, scrabble, draft, chess, arm wrestling, snooker, and golf.
Speaking further, the organizers reiterated their commitment to ensuring a successful championship that will not only showcase sporting excellence but also strengthen social bonds among participants while promoting healthy living through sports.
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The draw ceremony was attended by the Special Adviser on Sports to the Governor, Ntufam Ekanem; Commissioner I of the Cross River State Sports Commission, Gladys Igut, Sunny Ebam, Gabriel Ushie, members of the Main Organizing Committee; the Director of Sports, Mr. Mike Andotan; as well as other officials and stakeholders within the state’s sports sector.
In his closing remarks, a member of the Main Organizing Committee and former Director of Sports, Mr. Jude Amadi, expressed appreciation to the governor of Cross River State and the leadership of the sports commission for initiating and supporting the competition.
He also thanked all participating teams and stakeholders for their commitment and enthusiasm towards the success of the league.
As anticipation builds ahead of the commencement of the games, stakeholders remain optimistic that the 2026 Prince Otu Veterans Super League will further strengthen Cross River State’s reputation as a leading destination for sports development and veterans’ engagement in Nigeria.
