Countdown to Remita Corporate Champions Cup Season 3!
It’s that time of the year again!
Are you ready??
The 2016 edition of the Remita Corporate Champions Cup will be kicking-off soon, and as it’s the norm, teams from various industries in corporate Nigeria will be competing in several exciting games.
For this edition, the following teams would be competing for a chance to be crowned champion of champions in the 2016 Remita Corporate Champions Cup:
FIDELITY– The Fidelity Bank team happened to be debutantes in the highly competitive Nigeria Bankers Games 2015, but they came emerged champions. The reigning NBG football Champions will hope to continue their good run, and will be expected to make a bold statement in the battle for the Champion of Champions.
STERLING BANK – Perennial Quarter finalist in the Nigeria Bankers Games, Sterling Bank will make their debut in the RC3 2016 as replacement for the NBG football Runner-up, First Bank. They are one of the toughest teams to beat in the Corporate Nigeria Games, but will need to sharpen their striking force in order to go far in the RC3 2016.
UNILEVER – The defending FMCG Champions will be making their second appearance in the RC3. They made it to the semi-finals last year but eventually lost to Nestle. The youthful Unilever team has hopefully garnered some much needed experience from their first outing and should be eyeing the trophy for themselves this time.
NESTLE – The Defending Champions; edged out UBA in an enthralling final in the RC3 2015; 3rd consecutive appearance. Nestle are probably the most experienced team in the RC3 and are surely a force to reckon with. However, with new entrants in the tournament, the question that has to be answered this season is – will they be good enough to defend their crown?
MTN – MTN rolled back the years last season as they beat all participants in the Telecoms Games 2015 to win the football trophy for a 3rd time. They are the only other team aside from Nestle and Leadway Assurance to be making a 3rd consecutive appearance in the RC3. However, they are yet to make it past the quarterfinals. Will it be third time lucky for the yhello Boys? With last season’s performance in mind and a point to prove, they are indeed a team to watch out for in the tournament.
IHS NIGERIA – IHS Africa emerged runners-up of the Nigeria Telecoms Games 2015 in their debut season. A remarkable achievement in a tournament that also featured Etisalat and Airtel. They are a young and dynamic team with loads of talented players. Backed by a vociferous crowd of spectators, family and colleagues, this could easily be another dream debut season for them at the RC3 2016. Certainly, they are a team to watch out for.
LEADWAY – The insurance giant will make their third appearance at this year’s RC3. In their debut season in 2014, they could not make it past the quarterfinals, in 2015, they made it to the semi – finals, losing narrowly to UBA. They hope to go one better this season and truly fight for a chance to be crowned, the Corporate Nigeria’s – Champion of Champions.
More Details about the Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2016 will be updated soon.
NESTLE EMERGE CHAMPIONS AS REMITA CORPORATE CHAMPIONS CUP 2015 ENDS IN FANFARE!
The 2015 Remita Corporate Champions Cup ended with so much fun and fanfare on Sunday 24th May, 2015 at the Campos mini Stadium, Lagos.
It was a glorious day for the FMCG Teams as both representatives of the sector ended in the top 3.
In attendance were dignitaries from the Sponsors, the Organizers and participating companies.
They include: Mr. John Obaro, MD SystemSpecs, Mr. Deremi Atanda, ED SystemSpecs, Mr. Fela Bank-Olemoh, CEO of MediaVision Limited, Prince Peter Rufai, Tournament Ambassador and the Head, Human Resources of Nestle, Mr. Shola Akinyosoye.
The finals ceremony was kicked off with a novelty match between the Sponsors of the tournament, SystemSpecs and BUA Group. The match was a sign of what was to come. The Remita Eagles proved a hard nut to crack for the BUA Cement Boys. However, a Philip Nwosu solitary strike proved enough for BUA Group to win the game.
Then it was the turn of the kids to show what they were made of. They had a 5 a side novelty match. The match was full of running around as the very energetic kids ensured they had their share of the fun. Both the boys and girls paired up to play the kiddies novelty match
THIRD PLACE MATCH: UNILEVER VS LEADWAY ASSURANCE
The Remita Corporate Champions Cup battle for bronze was between Unilever, FMCG Games defending Champions and Leadway Assurance, the Nigeria Insurance Games defending Champions.
Unilever had narrowly lost to Nestle by 2 1 in the semi – finals while Leadway Assurance pushed the Nigeria Bankers Games Champions, UBA all the way to a penalty shootout where they eventually lost out.
However, the match turned out to be a one sided affair. After an initially balanced first 5 minutes of play, Unilever went on a goal scoring spree in both halves of the contest. Both Rotimi Egunwale and Tunde Oladeyo got a brace each while Ndukwu Udochukwu added gloss to the score line to win the third place match by 5 – 1. Dare Ajala scored what eventually turned out to be a consolatory goal for Leadway Assurance.
Unilever have won bronze in their first season in the Remita Corporate Champions Cup.
THE PETER RUFAI CHALLENGE
The biggest highlight of the finals ceremony was the Peter Rufai Challenge. Nigeria’s foremost Goalkeeper and Captain, Peter ‘Dodo Mayana’ Rufai was brought out of retirement to wear his famous gloves again.
This time for entertainment and Charity. Selected dignitaries were given the chance to play penalty kicks for the Ex – International and for every kick he saved, money would be donated to Charity.
The Legendary Goalkeeper proved that he was still on top of his game as he saved 4 out of the 8 penalty shoots that were taken. Dodo Mayana treated the gathered crowd of spectators to a glimpse of the man who stood between the sticks for Nigeria at Maroc 88, USA 94 amongst others.
THE FINALS: UBA VS NESTLE
Then the game that everybody was waiting for, the finals of the 2015 Remita Corporate Champions Cup, UBA vs Nestle.
To get to the finals, UBA, Nigeria Bankers Games defending Champions beat MTN in the quarterfinal and Leadway Assurance in the semifinals while Nestle beat Etisalat in the quarterfinals and Unilever in the semifinals.
Both teams had never met in the Corporate Nigeria Games.
It was fireworks from the blast of the whistle. The tension and anticipation on the field of play transcended to the spectators stand as supporters buoyed their players on.
It was a game of two halves, UBA drew first blood in the 18th minute of the first half through Cyprian Onyekachi, and had the upper hand in the first half and could have fancied themselves scoring more.
In the second half, it was Nestle who took over control in search of an equalizer. And they got their just reward in the 20th minute of the second half through Victor Edafe, their inspirational Captain.
The game then evened out as both sides tried to find a winning goal. Nestle did have the ball in the back of the net but it was ruled out for a foul.
Again Nestle continued to push at the UBA defense, where Audu Samuel was doing a yeo man’s job. However, with a few minutes left on the clock, goal scorer Victor Edafe turned provider as he pulled in a lovely ball off of a corner kick for Abiodun Ayoola to bundle in after UBA Goalkeeper, Shola Thomas had spilled the initial effort.
UBA tried to rally to pull level, however their worst enemy was time which eventually ran out to spark wild jubilation in the Nestle camp.
Nestle are the Champion of Champions of the Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2015.
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TROPHY TOUR AND RC3 FINALS PREVIEW
The Remita Corporate Champions Cup Finals will be played at the Mini Campos Stadium, Lagos on Sunday 24th May, 2015.
As with all of our corporate events, there will be a novelty match between Systemspecs – owners of Remita and BUA Group.
There will also be the 3rd place match between Unilever and Leadway Assurance before the biggest match of the championship between Banking Giants- UBA and their FMCG counterpart- Nestle Nigeria.
In line with the big event on Sunday, there is also the trophy tour to the corporate organizations that will be playing at the finals – UBA & Nestle.
Also lined up for Sunday are the following activities:
- Peter Rufai Penalty Challenge: This year’s edition of the ‘Peter Rufai Challenge’ will be opened to selected spectators.
- Hoola-Hoops for Kids: There will be Hoops throwing. Children entertainment will attract exciting freebies and other valuable gift items.
- Kids Match: There will be a short novelty match for kids between the ages of 7 to 14 years.
- Ball Artistry Competition: Adults and kids will have the opportunity to display their football artistry skills where winners will win exciting prizes.
- Autograph Signing: The Brand Ambassador will be signing autographs and taking pictures with children and selected adults.
- Branded Gifts and Souvenirs: All in a secured atmosphere with professionals from different corporate organizations in Nigeria
It promises to be a day filled with so much fun!
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FINALISTS EMERGE AT THE REMITA CORPORATE CHAMPIONS CUP
The semi – finals of the ongoing Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2015 took place on Sunday 17th May, 2015.
It was another display of corporate football at its best.
Dignitaries who graced the occasion included; the Managing Director of SystemSpecs, who led the ceremonial handshakes and performed the ceremonial kick-off; the tournament Ambassador, Peter Rufai; the Chief Executive Officer of MediaVision Limited, Mr. Fela Bank-Olemoh and the Executive Director of SystemSpecs, Mr. Deremi Atanda.
UNILEVER 1 2 NESTLE
The first semi – finals was between 2 heavy weights of the FMCG Industry, Unilever and Nestle. These two teams also clashed in the group matches of the 2014 FMCG Games. Then Nestle needed a win to reach the finals of the FMCG Games 2014, but after leading for almost the entire match, a last gasp equalizer by Unilever stopped the Milo Boys from reaching the finals at the first time of asking.
Unilever went on to lift the trophy.
So it can be said that revenge was once again on the minds of the Nestle players just as it was in their quarterfinal win over Etisalat.
The Milo Boys were the quickest off the blocks, causing early panic in the Unilever defense. They continued to dictate the tempo of the game through eventual man of the match, Captain Victor Edafe. Nestle eventually took a deserved lead in the 4th minute through the Captain after the Unilever defense momentarily went to sleep.
However, the goal seemed to wake the Close Up Boys as they took over control of the match and went in search of an early equalizer. The equalizing goal duly came in the 15th minute after a long probing ball was mishandled by the Nestle Goalkeeper leaving Ekundayo Akintade with the simplest of a tap in goal.
Nestlé’s second goal came in the 18th minute when Sodiq Soliu released a shot from outside of the 18 yard box which took a wicked deflection for Nestlé’s second and eventual winning goal.
The second half took off in much the same fashion with both teams trying to dictate play from the midfield. Both teams created and missed several chances. Try as they could, the FMCG Games defending Champions, Unilever’s comeback bid was thwarted by the Nestle defense which stood resolute to eventually qualify for the finals of the Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2015.
Man of the Match : Victor Edafe (Nestle)
Post-Match Interview with the Captains
UBA VS LEADWAY ASSURANCE
Two giants of their industry, UBA and Leadway Assurance took to the pitch for the second semi – final and a chance to reach the finals for the first time.
Both teams are defending Champions of their Industry Games, UBA for the Nigeria Bankers Games and Leadway Assurance for the Nigeria Insurance Games.
While UBA overcame MTN to get to the quarterfinals, Leadway Assurance defeated Ecobank to reach the semi – finals.
Both teams were unchanged from the quarterfinal winning sides and were meeting for the first time in the Corporate Nigeria Games.
It was however, Leadway Assurance who started the brightest, stringing together beautiful passes and causing all sorts of problems for the Audu Samuel led UBA defense.
In one of their many forays into the UBA defense, a UBA defender was adjudged to have handled the ball and Leadway Assurance were awarded a spot kick.
Up stepped Dare Ajala to take the kick, he created quite a buzz in taking the spot kick. He backed off almost close to their penalty box, strolled for a while then ran up to slot the ball home to give Leadway Assurance the lead.
The UBA team quickly regrouped and came at the Leadway Assurance team with the intent of getting back into the game immediately. In – form Audu Samuel got the ball from his own half got past a couple of players and then let rip a low short which the Leadway Assurance Goalkeeper had no answer to, it was game on in the second semi – finals of the Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2015.
The second half was not quite as explosive as the first, but there was a dogged determination in both teams to get into the finals. They cancelled out each others moves, although Leadway Assurance was put on the back foot for a better part of the second half.
The game eventually ended in a one-all stalemate and the winner had to be decided by penalty shootout.
Both teams scored their first 4 spot kicks. The UBA Goalkeeper took the final spot kick for his team and scored. He then re-enacted his Nigeria Bankers Games heroics, where he won the best Goalkeeper award, by stopping in beautiful fashion Leadway Assurance’s final spot kick.
Man of the Match: Sola Thompson (UBA)
UBA thus booked their finals ticket in their first season in the Remita Corporate Champions Cup.
Post-Match Interview
The finals of the Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2015 will be between UBA and Nestle. Both team Captains in their respective interviews have promised the fans a lot more than has been displayed already. Both teams will be playing in the finals for the first time and are sure looking forward to lifting the Trophy.
The Third Place Match between Unilever and Leadway Assurance as well as the Finals will take place on Sunday 24th May, 2015 at the Campos Stadium, Lagos Island.
Part of the closing ceremony will include the Peter Rufai Challenge. Selected dignitaries will have the opportunity to play a penalty for Nigeria’s foremost Goalkeeper and Captain, Peter Rufai. The Ex – International has promised to bring his original gloves for the entertainment.
The Challenge will come just before the finals and for every save Dodo Mayana makes, money will be donated to Charity.
Also at the finals, the Sponsor, SystemSpecs will be playing a novelty match against BUA Group, which is one game to look forward to.
The Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2015 is the second season of the tournament which is organized by MediaVision Limited and sponsored by Remita from SystemSpecs.
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RC3: SEMI-FINALS PREVIEW
After an entertaining Quarterfinal matches, here are the teams that will feature in the semi-final round of the Championship: Unilever, UBA, Nestle and Leadway Assurance.
FIXTURES:
SF 1: Unilever Vs Nestle (2pm)
SF 2: UBA Vs Leadway (4pm)
UNILEVER VS NESTLE
Unilever will be coming into this match with gusto has they defeated Swipha through penalties at the quarterfinals. The FMCG Champions will rely on their Goalkeeper and Captain – Joshon Kanshi who stopped two penalty kicks against Swipha . Meanwhile, the Milo Boys of Nestle are bustling with renewed confidence after they knocked out Telecoms Giants – Etisalat. Oragbon Justin will lead the Milo Boys when they file out this Sunday.
UBA VS LEADWAY
This promises to be an interesting semi-final fixture as the Champions of Nigeria Bankers Games and the Insurance counterparts slug it for a place at the finals. The Banking Champions who are also first timers at Remita, will want to stamp their authority in the Championship but they will get a stiff opposition from Leadway who were knocked out at the quarterfinal stage last year by Skye Bank. They will count on their experience in the championship to progress to the finals of Remita Champions Cup.
Players To Watch
1. Audu Samuel (UBA)
2. Joshon Kanshi (Unilever)
3. Oragbon Justin (Nestle)
4. Sesan Folorunsho (Leadway)
All matches will be played at Campos Stadium, Lagos.
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REMITA CORPORATE CHAMPIONS SEASON 2 STARTS!
The setting was the Campos Stadium, Lagos Island on Sunday, May 10, 2015.
Dignitaries present at the opening ceremony included; The Managing Director of SystemSpecs, Mr. John Obaro; the Chief Executive Officer of MediaVision Limited, Mr. Fela Bank-Olemoh; Executive Director SystemSpecs, Mr. Aderemi Atanda; and the Tournament Ambassador and Ex – International, the Legendary Peter ‘Dodo-Mayana’ Rufai.
The day began with a Novelty Match between the Guinness All Star Team and the Dettol Boys of Reckitt Benckiser. It was a perfect start to a gathering of Corporate Champions as both teams served up an interesting match. At the end, the Dettol boys won by a lone goal.
UNILEVER VS SWIPHA
The first quarterfinal match of the Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2015 was between FMCG Giants Unilever and their Pharmaceutical counter parts, Swipha.
It was a nervy affair that saw the defending FMCG Champions battling hard to overcome the sheer determination and grit of Swipha. The game eventually ended in a goalless draw and had to be decided on penalties. The Close up boys held their nerves to steer through to the semi – finals winning 4 – 3 on Penalty shootout.
UBA VS MTN
It was then the turn of the heavy weights, the match of the day. UBA, defending Nigeria Bankers Games Champions lined up to take on MTN, Nigeria Telecoms Games Runners up. The match lived up to its billings as both teams went straight to business. UBA had Emeka Iwu and Cyprian Onyeka spearheading their attack, with the ever reliable Audu Samuel and Tijani Mojeed marshaling the defence. MTN relied on Alichie Iheukwumere to lead the attack while skipper Joseph Akpata took care of business from the rear.
The very exciting encounter came to life in the 17th minute of the first half, when the gangling UBA defender, Audu Samuel, unmarked at the far post, brought a cross down with his chest and blasted a left footed shot past the MTN Goalie, Tony Iloh to hand UBA the lead. The MTN goalkeeper had to be alert 5 minutes later to deny Audu from scoring a brace.
As the second half wore down, UBA were content to pass the ball while running down the time. Despite MTN’s desperate bid to equalize, the game ended in a 1 nil win for UBA to hand them the second semi – final berth.
ETISALAT VS NESTLE
In a repeat of one of the semi – final matches of last season, Nigeria Telecoms Games Champions, Etisalat took on the Milo Boys of Nestle.
The match was arguably the most exciting game of the day. Last season, Etisalat beat Nestle to reach the finals, however, it was Nestle who came off the blocks firing. It was obvious that revenge was on their mind.
David Ore was in attack for Etisalat alongside Edore Eghwubare, while Promise Iche lead the line for the Milo Boys with Captain Victor Edafe pulling the strings in midfield. It was Promise Iche of Nestle who broke the deadlock in the 13th Minute from close range and immediately doubled their lead in the 15th minute after Etisalat failed to clear their lines.
However, Etisalat pulled one back immediately through Edore in the 16th minute to leave the game 2 – 1 in the first half.
The second period was a half of missed chances, the biggest of which was the 22nd minute goal line clearance by the Nestle defence. David Ore had gotten to the end of a through pass and lobbed the on rushing goalkeeper for what should have been a goal, only for the ball to be cleared off the line by Justin Oragbon.
The match ended 2 – 1 in favour of Nestle.
LEADWAY ASSURANCE VS ECOBANK
The final quarterfinal match was between Leadway Assurance, the Nigeria Insurance Games defending Champion and Ecobank, the second runners up of the Nigeria Bankers Games.
Both teams had a good season in 2014, while Leadway Assurance are making their second appearance at the tournament, Ecobank are appearing in the competition for the first time.
So it was Leadway then that made their experience count as they dictated play from the onset. They were rewarded in the 18th minute of play when Foloronsho Sesan curled in a fine freekick that slipped through the Ecobank defense wall and past the hapless Isah Kasim in goal to hand the Insurance giants the lead. The lead did not last long though as, Emmanuel Onwumene equalized for Ecobank after a goal mouth scramble.
The tempo of the game was upped in the second half as both teams searched for a win. It was however, Leadway Assurance through Dare Ajala who got the all-important goal with 5 minutes left to play to set up a tense finish. Ecobank surged forward in search of an equalizer, but the Leadway Assurance held firm to advance to the semi – finals.
The semi – final pairings is thus:
| Semi – final 1 | Unilever Vs Nestle |
| Semi – final 2 | UBA Vs Leadway Assurance |
The semi – finals will be played on Sunday 17th May, 2015 at the Campos Stadium, Lagos Island by 2pm.
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REMITA Corporate Championship Cup, Season 2 Begins.
As Usual, a Press Conference was held at Systemspecs – parent company of Remita – to kick start the season.
Also, the draws were done to determine the fixtures and the teams that will be meeting each other during the course of the Championship.
8 corporate teams from the Banking, Telecoms, Insurance, FMCG & Pharmaceutical sector will take part in this season – UBA, MTN, LEADWAY ASSURANCE, UNILEVER, ETISALAT, ECOBANK & SWIPHA.
Former Super Eagles Goalkeeper, Peter ‘Dodo Mayana’ Rufai was also at the event.
- Remita’s Brand Ambassador – Peter Rufai.
The Remita Corporate Championship Cup will kick off from the 10th – 24th May, 2015.
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THE REMITA CORPORATE CHAMPIONS CUP SEASON 2 IS HERE!
The much awaited season 2 of the Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2015 is here!There will be a Press Conference to officially start the Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2015 on Wednesday 6th May, 2015 at the Office of the Sponsors, SystemSpecs at Obalende by 2pm.
The draws for the event will also hold during the press conference, representatives of the participating teams are expected to attend.
The teams that will vie for Corporate Nigeria’s Biggest Trophy are:
UBA – The reigning Nigeria Bankers Games football Champions will make their debut in the competition. However, with their strong football pedigree and consistency, UBA despite been debutants are favourites to go all the way.
ECOBANK – Ecobank are coming off of a massively improved 2014 Nigeria Bankers Games season that saw them win bronze medal. They are coming into the Remita Corporate Champions Cup as a replacement for Skye Bank. They are also debutants but will pose a serious threat to any team any day.
ETISALAT – They are arguably the most consistent corporate team in Nigeria. A back to back Nigeria Telecoms Games Championship and a runners up at the last Remita tournament attest to that. However, the question that has to be answered this season is – will they be good enough to emerge the Champion of Champions?
MTN – The yellow boys of MTN are two times Champions of the Nigeria Telecoms Games. Although they had a rough season in 2014, they will be looking to bounce back in the Remita Corporate Champions Cup. The RC3 represents an opportunity to MTN to get back to winning ways again.
UNILEVER – The defending FMCG Champions will be making their first appearance in the RC3. They beat ball odds last season to emerge victorious in the 2014 FMCG Games, with a youthful and energetic team, they will be eying the trophy for themselves.
NESTLE – They will be making their second appearance in the RC3, they fell at the quarterfinal stage last season. The Milo boys can take confidence from their display last time and hope to improve and go one better. They are a team to watch out for.
LEADWAY ASSURANCE – They are the Nigeria Insurance Games defending Champion and are making their second appearance in RC3. The 2 time Insurance Champions have a penchant for been difficult to beat, should they solve their goalscoring problems, they could go all the way. Another team to watch out for.
SWIPHA – They are an unknown quantity. They have only featured in the Corporate Nigeria Games in a novelty match against First Bank, they drew 1 all. They represent the x factor at this season’s RC3. What will they come up with?
The schedule for RC3 is thus…..
| EVENT | DATE | TIME | VENUE |
| KICKOFF/QUARTERFINAL | SATURDAY 9TH MAY | 12 NOON | CAMPOS STADIUM |
| QUARTERFINAL | SUNDAY 10TH MAY | 2PM | |
| SEMI – FINAL | SUNDAY 17TH MAY | 2PM | |
| FINAL | SUNDAY 24TH MAY | 1PM |
Come and witness corporate football at its best.
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CORPORATE NIGERIA GAMES – 2014
REMITA CORPORATE CHAMPIONS CUP COMES TO AN EXCITING FINISH
The REMITA Corporate Champions Cup came to an exciting end on Sunday 27th April at the Campos Square mini stadium.
There was plenty of fun for the fans that came to see a very wonderful occasion. It was full of colour as the stadium was filled up. Three matches were played on the day. The first game was a friendly encounter between Huawei and UNILEVER. This game set the tone for what was to come. The first half saw UNILEVER go into the lead through Samuel Michael, while Jude Ogbeni doubled their advantage moments after the first. The second half however saw a different Huawei who even though were unable to score, but was able to keep UNILEVER at bay.
The 3rd place match was between Nestle and PZ Cussons. This tie ended 2 – 1 in favour of Nestle, with goals from Olubiyo Abayomi and Alao Idowu (Nestle) whilst Adekanbi Idris got PZ Cussons only goal. The final saw two champions Etisalat (Nigeria Telecoms Games) and Skye Bank (Nigeria Bankers Games) clash. An exciting affair saw Skye Bank running off as winners courtesy of a 1 – 0 victory. The only goal of the game was scored by Chukwuma Ikechukwu.
There was also the Peter Rufai Challenge, where in a charity event REMITA would give money to Charity. For every save Peter Rufai made the money was to be doubled. Amongst the dignitaries that took penalties included; Mr John Obaro (MD SystemSpecs), Mr Obafela Bank-Olemoh (CEO MediaVision Limited), Mr Waidi Akanni (Ex International), Mr Rasheed Bolarinwa (Head, Corporate Communications, Skye Bank), Tunji Bajowa (Hall of Famer, Sterling Bank), Jamiu Badmus (Manager Health, Safety and Security, Etisalat), Mr Femi Aribaloye (DGM, Enterprise Risk Management; Hall of Famer Skye Bank) and Yemi Faseun (Head of HR Operations.
Others are Mr Olawale Alao (Production Manager Cereals, Nestle), Mr Ekundayo Idowu (HR Manager), Robert Mayberry (Stanford University, secondment to SystemSecs), Mr Igbalajobi (GM Remita – SystemSpecs),Mrs Eunice Ikekhuah (Executive Director SystemSpecs).
Other dignitaries present are Deremi Atanda (Executive Director SystemSpecs), Ayodele Alonge (Acting CFO AIICO Insurance) and Samson Olarinde (HR Change Management, Unilever).
A colourful event was rounded up with the presentation of awards and medals. The topscorer award went to David Ore (Etisalat), whilst the MVP of the tournament was awarded to Khalid Agboola (Etisalat).
SKYE EDGE ETISALAT IN EXCITING FINAL
Skye bank came into this tournament with a contrasting style of play from what people had come to know them with. They were mean at the back and they got the bulk of their goals by catching the opposition out.
Against an Etisalat team that were used to playing an expansive game they had the full complement of their defensive quartet. Tayo Adeyemi, Ebenezer Joseph, Tunde Abegunrin and Seye Omosewa, with Rotimi Saka and George Ikwelle sitting in front of the defence. Etisalat on the other hand had in attack Osere Osunbor, David Ore and Solomon Ajala with Andrew Enebeli the captain relegated to the bench.
It was a case of defence versus attack. Etisalat mounted the early pressure, but always met a brick wall in the Skye defence. The game produced more offsides than any real action and the action was plenty. The main culprit of the offside calls was Chukwuma Okechukwu, who incessantly strayed beyond the last man. He however got it right in the 12th minute of the first half with a poacher’s goal, stealing in to score off a throw in.
This goal brought out the ire in Etisalat as they constantly poured forward to get the equalizer, but combination of solid defending by Skye Bank and profligate finishing denied them the goals. Osere Osunbor was once denied by the cross bar, Ayeni Ayokunle blazed wide when he had the goal at his mercy and David Ore final ball control denied him of at least two goals.
Credit however must be given to the Skye defence for putting doing a yeoman’s job in ensuring they were not breached.
Etisalat would however call themselves unlucky after failing to convert any of the chances that came their way as Skye Bank held on for a famous victory. It was the first time this two sides have played each other. Skye Bank thus becomes the first bank to win this title.
MVP: ORE DAVID (ETISALAT)
NESTLE CLAIM 3RD PLACE
The third place match at the REMITA Corporate Champions Cup was contested by two sides known for their drive and purposeful play; Nestle and PZ Cussons. Both arrived at this stage courtesy narrow losses at the hands of Etisalat and Skye Bank respectively.
The game was expected to be purposeful, exciting and action packed and it didn’t disappoint. It packed in the 60 minutes of play the excitement of two pugilists going at each other with bare knuckles and no thought for the aftermath.
Nestle showed more intent as they used their aerial prowess to torment the Friday Elaho tutored lads, while PZ Cussons found their free flowing game curtailed as they continually found it difficult to break down the Nestle defence. The deadlock was eventually broken in the 7th minute when Olubiyo Abayomi met an aerial ball with a strong header that beat goalkeeper Segun Abubakar.
The game saw PZ Cussons come to life as it swung from end to end. It was Nestle who however extended their lead as Alao Idowu met a pull out with a strong header at the far post that left Segun Abubakar stranded.
Stunned, PZ took the game to Nestle, but had to wait till the 1st minute of second half to cut the deficit in two. A long range shot from Idris Adekanbi caught out Idasefiana Amos who had the sun in his sights.
Further efforts from PZ to get the equalizer and send the game to a shootout was continually rebuffed by Eragbon Justin and co at the back.
MVP: VICTOR EDAFE (CAPTAIN NESTLE)
REMITA CHAMPIONS CUP SEMI FINAL RESULTS
The Semi Finals of the on going Remita Champions Cup was played on Saturday 19th of April 2014 at the Campos Square football pitch, Lagos.
The results are as below:
SKYE SHOW ENOUGH METTLE TO BERTH IN FINAL
Rotimi Saka Tayo Ogunji
Chukwuma Oko
The second Semi Final saw Skye bank square of PZ Cussons. The enterprising lads from PZ were expected to give Skye bank a run for their money and they sure did make Skye bank work for their money.
The early exchange was a cagey affair as both teams took their time to feel each other out. PZ was expected to storm out of the blocks in an explosive manner like they’d done in the past, but each time they tried to up the tempo of the game they were quite easily caged by an experienced Skye backline that witnessed the return of erstwhile captain Rotimi Saka. Skye bank was able to force PZ Cussons into playing at a tempo that suited them. This however gave no joy to ex international and PZ coach, Friday Elaho.
Several attacks by PZ was effectively broken down by the trio of Tunde Abegunrin, Ebenezer Joseph and Rotimi Saka. With chances at a premium, it remained to be seen where the goals would come from as the efforts of both teams especially Olujimi Segun, Jimmy Henry and Tayo Ogunji for PZ all came to nought.
Fortune however smiled on PZ as they got a free kick just outside the box. Rasheed Oshun had just made a fantastic save only to make an uncharacteristic error of catching a rebound outside the box. Tayo Ogunji was on hand to put it past Rasheed Oshun. The second hand half saw Skye bank press forward more and in one of those forays forward they won a free kick in an identical position. Rotimi Saka showed his prowess by belting it past Segun Abubakar.
The game finished one goal apiece and went to extra time. Extra time started very quickly and straight from the kick off Chukwuma Oko received a pass as he beat the offside trap before shooting beyond the reach of Segun Abubakar.
With Skye bank in the lead, they managed to frustrate every PZ effort to berth into another final.
MVP: EBENEZER JOSEPH
Ebenezer Joseph (Skye Bank) MVP of the Match, Mr. John Tani Obaro (MD of SystemSpecs)
ETISALAT BOOKS FINAL SPOT
David Ore Victor Edafe
Solomon Ajala Sodiq Soliu
Yaqub Kasim
The first Semi Final of the REMITA Corporate champions Cup saw Etisalat lock horns with Nestle. Everyone who was present at the venue expected an exciting match and they were not disappointed. Amongst those who witnessed the occasion was the managing director of SystemSpecs, Mr. John Tani Obaro (who was marking his birthday), his wife Mrs. Obaro, Executive Director SystemSpecs, Mr. Deremi Atanda, Mr. Demola Igbalajobi, GM Remita Business Services, Mrs. Marie Owoniyi, HR Manager Nestle and Alex Goma, MD Family Care PZ Cussons.
The game itself started at a frenetic pace and it didn’t take Etisalat long to draw first blood. David Ore received a throw in from Solomon Ajala, chested it up before volleying an overhead kick beyond the reach of the Nestle goalkeeper, Kehinde Oderinde.
That was as good as it got for Etisalat in the first half. Nestle took the game by the scruff and started to dictate play, forcing Etisalat into frantic defending. Khalid Agboola and Olatoye Kolawole had to dig deep to keep Nestle at bay and it wasn’t a surprise when Olatoye Kolawole went into the referee’s book for a professional foul.
Nestle kept pressing through Ismail Ibrahim, Victor Edafe (captain), Sodiq Soliu and Chike Nwanze. Their efforts yielded results as Victor Edafe nodded in a high ball at the near post for the equalizer.
An identical move saw Sodiq Soliu steal in at the near post to nod in Nestle’s second.
The second half started in much the same manner as the first, as right from the kick off Solomon Ajala received a pass and sprinted past everyone to shoot past goalkeeper Oderinde Kehinde.
The script had another twist to it as David Ore was at the heart of things again, but this time as creator. He worked his way through the Nestle defence before squaring to Yaqub Kasim to knock home for Etisalat’s third goal.
All Nestle’s effort after that goal failed to yield any dividends as Etisalat notched up at their first appearance in the competition, a place in the final.
MVP: KHALID AGBOOLA
Deremi Atanda (Executive Director SystemSpecs), Khalid Agboola (Etisalat) MVP of the Match,
CORPORATE NIGERIA GAMES – OTHER EVENTS
BOARD GAMES
CHESS MALE
Gold – Omosebi Adebowale –Nestle
Silver – Balogun Agboola – Mainstreet
Bronze – Adeosun Adeyemi – Mtn
SCRABBLE – MALE
Gold – Dayo Obisesan – Ecobank
Silver – Martins Obiorah – MTN
Bronze – Olaiya Abimbola – Nestle
SCRABBLE – FEMALE
Gold – Temitayo Olatoye – First Bank
Silver – Chinasa Ozodinobi – First Bank
Bronze – Victoria Emeneh – Etisalat
FEMALE – CHESS
Gold – Ngodoo Jirgba – Etisalat
Silver – Denise Irabor – Etisalat
Bronze – Tayo Olatoye – First bank
TABLE TENNIS
MEN SINGLE
Gold – Banjoko Olajide – Nestle
Silver – Femi Ayeni – Firstbank
Bronze – Oriyomi Sunday – (Nestle) and Solomon Idowu – (Firstbank)
MENS DOUBLE
Gold – Femi /idowu – Firstbank
Silver – Olajide /Sunday – Nestle
Bronze – Arinze/Akala (skye) and Kayode/Olufemi (Nestle)
PZ EDGE MTN ON PENALTIES
MTN took on PZ in the fourth match up for the final semi final ticket with high hopes. A titanic battle was on the cards and that was what the fans got. These two sides are no strangers to each other as they met in this competition last year with PZ Cussons emerging victorious via penalties.
PZ Cussons started the match the brighter of the two sides as they took the game to MTN. The defensive duo of Joseph Akpata and Taofeek Badmus were however up to the task, keeping the marauding strike force of PZ comprising Olujini Segun, Jimmy Henry and Tayo Ogunji at bay.
MTN tried to force their way back into the game but Aliche Iheukwumere and Frank Akwara were not getting the right service.
Second half substitutions yielded little in terms of complexion of the game as both sides were able to nullify whatever was thrown at them. The closest the game came to seeing a goal came late in the game after Segun Olujimi beat the offside trap set by MTN collecting a sublime pass before chipping goalkeeper Lanre Amodu only to see his shot cleared off the line by Taofeek Badmus.
The game finished 0 – 0 at full time with extra time unable to separate the two sides. The dreaded penalty shootout ensued and once again MTN were unlucky. Goalkeeper Segun made a save before Joseph Akpata saw his shot canon off the crossbar. Olujimi Segun then rounded off victory for PZ Cussons as he scored the deciding penalty.
MVP: TAYO OGUNJI (PZ CUSSONS)
Tayo Ogunji (PZ Cussons) MVP of the Match, Mr. John Tani Obaro (MD of SystemSpecs)
ETISALAT EASE PAST STANCHART 2-0
Two goals from Etisalat was enough to see them through to the Semi Finals of the Remita Corporate Champions Cup. The game started at a very quick pace as both sides looked to assert the early authority. The attackers of both teams were however not getting much joy as both defences were doing enough to snuff out whatever was thrown at it.
Etisalat was without Solomon Ajala who won the MVP award at the Nigeria Telecoms Games 2013 and as the first half ended in a barren draw many expected his introduction. The coach however opted to leave his star player on the bench and continue with the rest of the lads.
With the game deadlocked at 0 – 0 and looking to be heading to extra time both coaches made a rash of changes. Onyenekwe Chianugo and Nwokoye Uchenna came on even as Kenneth Onyema was brought on to replace the injured Usman Jamiu. Funlola Oni, Oluchukwu Ughala and Chuka Emereole were also introduced by Standard Chartered Bank.
It was however a player who had been on from the beginning that caused the biggest impact. David collected a pass outside the Standard Chartered Bank’s box and meandered his way into the box before setting up Chianugo Onyenekwe with a clear sight on target but his shot cannoned off the goalkeeper Richard Omoike before the other substitute Nwokoye Uchenna sent in a pile driver that beat Richard Omoike at his near post.
A few minutes later David Ore was back in business, this time he collected a pass deep inside his half and sprinted the length of the pitch before powering a shot beyond the flailing reach of Richard Omoike for the second goal.
MVP: DAVID ORE (ETISALAT)
David Ore (Etisalat) MVP of the Match, Mr. John Tani Obaro (MD of SystemSpecs)
SKYE GETS NARROW WIN OVER LEADWAY TO MAKE SEMI FINAL
The Nigeria Bankers Games champions came into this tie with a huge pedigree and against Leadway Assurance, they were the bookies top bet to win this one.
Skye bank was shorn of their top stars, Mustapha Abdulrasheed, Ismaili Sani and Monsur Ali-Tofa. Leading the side was veteran defender Ebenezer Joseph partnered in the defence by Tayo Adeyemi. Leadway were however not going to sit back and be cowed by the pedigree of the opposition. They took the game to their more illustrious opponent and pressuring them into making desperate challenges.
Skye bank was far from their usual best as the fluid flowing game fans had become accustomed to missing.
For all the pressure mounted by Leadway they found the defence comprising of Ebenezer Joseph, Tayo Adeyemi, Vincent Nwachukwu and goalkeeper Rasheed Oshun hard to breach.
The second half saw the introduction of Kazeem Omotosho and Michael Amoo, but things didn’t look like changing until a rare Skye Bank foray saw Kazeem Omotosho unopposed meet a Tayo Akintayo pass inside the six yard box.
The goal seemed to galvanize Leadway into action, but all their pressure didn’t yield any results and that was how it finished.
MVP: TAYO ADEYEMI (SKYE BANK)
Tayo Adeyemi (SKYE BANK) MVP of the Match, Deremi Atanda (Executive Director SystemSpecs)
NESTLE EDGE NEM TO SEMIS
The first game of the Remita Corporate Champions Cup saw Nestle come up against NEM Insurance seasoned campaigners in the Nigeria Insurance Games.
The game kicked off at a breath taking pace with Nestle taking the game to NEM Insurance. Several of their efforts went unrewarded as a combination of good goalkeeping and profligate finishing denied them of goals.
NEM Insurance was certainly living a charmed life as they were taking all the time possible to settle into the game and were punished by Nestle. Sodiq Soliu who had been a thorn in the NEM flesh broke the deadlock, but soon hobbled off the pitch injured. His replacement, Ayoola Abiodun came on and continued where he left off scoring a beauty of a goal.
A couple of minutes later NEM insurance pulled one back after Dawuju Lateef collected a through pass from Mark Odosoroh to put beyond goalkeeper Kehinde Oderinde.
The second half saw chances swinging from end to end with both teams guilty of profligate finishing, however the final minute of added time saw Dawuju Lateef pressurize the Nestle defence into committing and uncharacteristic error before chipping Kehinde Oderinde for the equalizer.
Extra time produced no goals and the drama kicked off in the ensuing shootout.
With the game tied at 4 – 4 and Mark Udosorh needed to score NEM’s final penalty to see them in the Semi Final. He missed hitting the upright and sending the game into sudden death where Kehinde Oderinde made a save to send Nestle into the Semi Final to play Etisalat.
MVP: DAWUJU LATEEF (NEM)
Deremi Atanda (Executive Director SystemSpecs), Dawuju Lateer (NEM) MVP of the Match
REMITA CORPORATE CHAMPIONS CUP OFF TO A FLYER
The REMITA Corporate Champions Cup kicked off on Saturday 12th of April 2014 with four matches. The first 2 matches were played at the Onikan Waterfront whilst the other two were played at the Campos Square football pitch.
From L-R: Waidi Akanni, Peter Rufai(Tournament Ambassador), Deremi Atanda (Executive Director SystemSpecs), Fela Bank-Olemoh(CEO MediaVision Limited)
The opening day had in attendance several top dignitaries which included the Tournament Ambassador, ex international Peter Rufai. Also present was Deremi Atanda (Executive Director SystemSpecs), and ex international Waidi Akanni.
There was plenty of fanfare and excitement on the day with entertainment coming from ball jugglers, skaters and bikers.
Sunday was not shorn of dignitaries and excitement. In attendance was the MD of SystemSpecs, Mr. John Tani Obaro, Special guest of the day was Mr. Tunde Oyewole the MD of Printmaster, Mr. Paul Ibidun GM Corporate Services, SystemSpecs. Also in attendance were Mrs. Eunice Ikekhuah, Executive Director SystemSpecs and Mr. Demola Igbalajobi, GM Remita Business services, Systemspecs.
Mr. John Tani Obaro (MD of SystemSpecs)
The two matches on Saturday saw NEM Insurance edged out by Nestle 5 – 4 after the game went to penalties.
The other match saw Skye go past hard fighting Leadway Assurance 1 – 0.
There was also plenty of action on Sunday as Etisalat needed 2 late goals to beat Standard Chartered bank 2 – 0 while MTN lost to PZ Cussons.
The Semi Finals comes up on Saturday the 19th of April 2014 at the Campos Square football pitch.
Scrabble Male
Gold Dayo Obisesan Ecobank
Silver Martins Obiorah MTN
Bronze Olaiya Abimbola Nestle
Scrabble Women
Gold Temitayo Olatoye First Bank
Silver Chinasa Ozodinobi First Bank
Bronze Victoria Emeneh Etisalat
Fela is the Co-founder of MediaVision Limited .
MediaVision Limited management you guys are wonderful people.you keep on coming out with great ideas.Good people with great CREATIVITY!!!
Great works from the mediavision team. For me its a fantastic job you are doing, bring wellness to employees in the nation through sport.
Honestly,I give it all to you guys.Your work is off-world.I will always praise and tell everyone to take part and contribute to this great work.You have brought unity amongst all.
Please consider “Nigerian Works Games”. It is achievable.