The Edo State Football Association has announced that the draws for the 2025 FA Cup, Nigeria’s oldest football competition, will take place on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. The event will be held at the media centre of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, beginning at noon.

Fred Newton Erhunmwunse, Chairman of the Edo Football Association, revealed that each participating team must send two representatives to the ceremony, which will also feature the unveiling of Peculiar Ultimate Concern as the official sponsor of this year’s competition.

The 2025 Edo FA Cup will see a total of 24 male teams and six female teams competing for the prestigious trophy. The tournament is set to kick off on February 5 and will run until February 23, following the guidelines of the Nigeria Football Federation NFF.

Defending champions Bendel Insurance FC and will aim to retain their titles as the competition progresses.

Editorial

The Edo FA Cup’s 2025 edition reaffirms the enduring legacy of grassroots football in Nigeria. As one of the oldest football competitions in the country, it continues to play a pivotal role in unearthing talent and fostering sportsmanship.

The inclusion of both male and female teams highlights a commendable step toward inclusivity in football. Events like these not only serve as a proving ground for budding players but also unite communities in celebration of the sport. The unveiling of Peculiar Ultimate Concern as the sponsor adds another layer of prestige, demonstrating the growing commercial interest in grassroots competitions.

For defending champions Bendel Insurance FC and Edo Queens, the tournament represents an opportunity to solidify their dominance, while for others, it’s a chance to make history. As the draws approach, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting and competitive tournament.

Did You Know?

1. 
   
2. The Edo FA Cup is part of the larger national FA Cup competition, which has been running since 1945.
   
3. The Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, the venue for the draws, is one of Nigeria’s most iconic sports facilities.
   
4. Bendel Insurance FC is one of the most successful teams in Edo State’s football history.
   
5. The 2025 Edo FA Cup will feature a record 30 teams 24 male and 6 female, emphasising its growth.
   
6. The competition serves as a qualifying platform for the National Federation Cup, where state winners compete on a larger stage.