By joshua 
Abuja Archdiocesan CMO President, Ayaeze, declares Lugbe Deanery soccer tournament open
The President, Catholic Men Organisation (CMO) of the Archdiocese of Abuja, Sir Onowu Paul Obi Ayaeze, has officially declared open the 2026 Lugbe Deanery CMO Soccer Championship themed “Building Bonds of Brotherhood Through Football”.
Sir Ayaeze who was the Special Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony held last Saturday at Super Tech FC Arena, ACO Estate, Airport Road, Abuja, described the Lugbe Deanery football tournament as an eye-opener for the Archdiocesan CMO, in his goodwill message delivered before he performed the ceremonial kick-off to start the competition.
“This tournament is going to be an eye-opener for us. I want to simply wish us all a healthy and fruitful competition. I’m here to just observe and learn. This is my first time attending a men’s competition. And I pray that it will be a hitch-free tournament. There will be no injuries, and there will be no incidence in Jesus name,” he prayed.
In his opening remarks, President of Lugbe Deanery CMO, Engr. Felix Okeke, said the tournament which started two years ago under his predecessor, was designed to be one of its kind in the Archdiocese of Abuja.
According to him, “We had the first tournament about two years ago under my predecessor, Chief Adebayo. This tournament is the second in the series. You are aware that the theme for this edition is to build bonds of brotherhood through football. So, it is expected that you are going to have this tournament in a friendly atmosphere. Though, there are prizes to be won, but then it shouldn’t be a do or die affair. We are men of honour. And so, it is expected that we comport ourselves as such.”
The Lugbe Deanery CMO President applauded the organising committee for their commitment and painstaking efforts that made the commencement of the football championship a reality.
Chairman of the Organising Committee, Brother Sunday Otori, JP, while welcoming the invited guests, CMO members, parishioners from different parishes within the Deanery, and football lovers who came watch the opening ceremony of the soccer event, noted that “Through this tournament, we hope to encourage stronger relationships among our members, discover talents, promote physical fitness, and above all foster the spirit of love and togetherness that the Church stands for.
“As Chairman of the Planning Committee, I sincerely appreciate the dedication and sacrifices of every committee member who worked tirelessly to make this event a reality. Your commitment, teamwork, and support have been truly commendable.
“I also extend our profound gratitude to the LDCMO Executive Council, our spiritual leaders, sponsors, donors, parish coordinators, and everyone who contributed financially, morally, and spiritually towards the success of this tournament.”
Brother Otori, who is equally the Vice President of Lugbe Deanery CMO, added: “To the participating teams, I encourage you all to play with discipline, fairness, and respect for one another. Remember that while winning is important, the true victory lies in the friendship and unity we build throughout this competition. Let us avoid every form of violence, hostility, or misconduct and instead uphold the values of sportsmanship and brotherhood.”
Participants commended the Lugbe Deanery CMO Executive Council led by Engr. Okeke for sustaining the soccer championship.
The tournament, which has 26 parishes making up the teams divided into six groups at the preliminary stage, will come to an end on June 28, 2026.
By The Media and Publicity Subcommittee