Nigeria’s Super Eagles winger, Anayo Iwuala, who currently plays for Al-Arabi Football Club of Kuwait, has joined the growing list of Nigerian internationals giving back to grassroots football. The Imo State–born star donated branded jerseys to the finalists of the 2025 Super Four Edition of the Anniversary Cup in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State.
The beneficiaries were Tarka Youth Stars FC of Wannune and Netivitals FC of Tarhembe, who competed in this year’s final of the five-year-old tournament organised by Abuja-based journalist and indigene of the area, Terverr Tyav.
As in previous editions, the championship match ended goalless in regulation time and went straight to penalties. Netivitals FC of Tarhembe claimed the 2025 title with a 3–1 victory during the shootout, while Tarka Youth Stars FC finished as runners-up.
Players from both sides expressed gratitude to Iwuala for the gesture, noting that it was the first time they were receiving such direct support from a national team player they consider a role model.
Earlier in the third-place match, City Boys FC of Wannune defeated Young Stars United FC of Agboughul 4–1 on penalties after a 1–1 draw, securing the bronze medal.
Individual honours were also awarded. Most Valuable Player (MVP) was given to Akor Atungwa Christopher (Netivitals FC). Best Goalkeeper was Tyozua Solomon (Young Stars United FC). Highest Goal Scorer was Iorhaa Isaac (Tarka Youth Stars FC), while Tarhembe Iornongu of Netivitals FC took the title for best coach.
Chairman of Tarka LGA, Raphael Yenge, and Chairman of the Mbakor Day Organising Committee, Dr. Ezekiel Gundu, commended organiser Terverr Tyav for his dedication to nurturing young football talent.
Yenge also announced cash gifts totalling N500,000 to reward the champions and other participating teams. Members of the Local Organising Committee include Terwase Akpera (Chairman), Ugar Terseer, Iortyom Francis, Jembe Terhemen, and Keghtor Tondo.
Since its inception in 2021 to celebrate the silver jubilee of Tarka LGA, the tournament has produced multiple champions: 2021: City Boys FC of Wannune. 2022: Tarka Youth Stars FC of Wannune. 2023:Netivitals FC of Tarhembe. 2024: Federal Polytechnic Wannune FC. 2025: Netivitals FC of Tarhembe (reclaimed the title)
Tarka LGA was created 29 years ago on December 8, 1996, under the military administration of the late General Sani Abacha.
