Dr. Pastor Elijah Evinemi presents the gold medal to Dr. Akoji EjigboDr. Akoji Ejigbo’s captaincy powers Team HOS to gold in spirited showdown at Confluence Stadium
The highlight of the 2025 Kogi State Civil Service Week came alive on the turf of the Lokoja Confluence Stadium as the Office of the Head of Civil Service (HOS) triumphed 1–0 over the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS) in a thrilling novelty football match.
Led by Dr. Akoji Ejigbo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Team HOS struck early in the first half. The breakthrough came after a foul against the SGS side resulted in a penalty kick. Although the SGS goalkeeper initially deflected the shot, a lightning-fast counter strike by a HOS attacker buried the ball in the net, igniting chants of “HOS! HOS!” from the jubilant crowd.
The stadium buzzed with excitement as civil servants, sports enthusiasts, and top government functionaries gathered to witness the friendly rivalry. Among the dignitaries present were the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Monday Anyebe, along with Permanent Secretaries, Directors, and other senior civil servants, whose cheers amplified the festive spirit.
Both teams displayed an electrifying mix of counterattacking flair and resilient defending. Despite spirited attempts by Team SGS to find an equaliser in the second half, the HOS side held their ground until the final whistle.
In the post-match ceremony, the Head of Civil Service, Dr. Pastor Elijah Evinemi, FCA, presented gold medals and the winner’s trophy to Team HOS, while silver medals went to Team SGS in recognition of their valiant display. Smiles, handshakes, and photo sessions sealed the day in a mood of camaraderie and unity.
Organisers emphasised that the novelty match was more than just a sporting contest, it was a symbolic display of teamwork, healthy competition, and the shared commitment to building a vibrant, cohesive Kogi State Civil Service.
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