By Abolanle Oluwatola
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) football team, Dantsoho Jets, kicked off their 2025 Maritime Cup campaign on a winning note, defeating the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) 2–1 in a fiercely contested encounter at the Nigeria Institute of Sports (NIS) Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
The annual Maritime Cup Tournament, now in its 15th edition, brings together teams from leading public and private sector organisations within Nigeria’s maritime industry, fostering unity, camaraderie and healthy competition beyond the boardroom.
Wednesday’s opening clash lived up to expectations as both teams displayed impressive skill, determination and sportsmanship before an enthusiastic crowd of maritime workers, students and football lovers.
NIMASA drew first blood in the 7th minute when Sampson Itua (jersey number 12) found the back of the net with a powerful strike that left the NPA goalkeeper rooted to the spot. The early goal electrified the atmosphere and gave the NIMASA side confidence as they pressed for a second.
However, the Dantsoho Jets refused to be subdued. Galvanised by their coach’s touchline instructions, they reorganised their midfield and began to dictate the pace of the game. Their persistence paid off in the 49th minute when a swift counterattack was converted into an equaliser, much to the delight of NPA supporters.
The equaliser set the stage for an exhilarating second half, with both teams showcasing tactical discipline and technical flair. The spectators were treated to end-to-end football, with near misses and clever passes that reflected the improving standard of the competition.
The decisive moment came in the 78th minute when Bello Ibrahim latched onto a loose ball in the penalty area and coolly slotted home to give NPA a 2–1 lead. Despite NIMASA’s late attempts to level the score, the Dantsoho Jets held firm to secure all three points in their opening fixture.
In the day’s second game, 2010 champions Micura Services Limited battled to a 1–1 draw with Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited (ABTL) in another entertaining contest that kept spectators on their feet until the final whistle.
Since inception in 2009, the Maritime Cup, organised by Ships & Ports, is the flagship sporting event within Nigeria’s maritime sector. It promotes teamwork and wellness among maritime professionals while strengthening inter-agency relations.
As the 2025 edition gathers momentum, fans can expect more thrilling encounters as teams jostle for supremacy, bragging rights, and a shot at the coveted Maritime Cup trophy.