Nigeria’s foremost terminal operator, ENL Consortium, secured their first victory at the ongoing 2025 Ships & Ports Maritime Cup Tournament on Thursday, marking a decisive and promising start to their campaign while rekindling memories of their 2009 championship glory.
In their Group B fixture at the NPA Sports Ground in Surulere, Lagos, ENL defeated LTT Coastal and Marine Services 2–0 in a match that held spectators in suspense from the opening whistle to the final minutes.
The highly anticipated encounter began with LTT showing early hunger for control. Kitted in bright orange, the team displayed pace, agility and sharp movement as they pushed men forward in search of an early advantage.
ENL Consortium, cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd accompanied by a spirited band, were quick to absorb the pressure, maintaining structure as they fought to dictate the tempo.
The first half unfolded as a tight contest marked by fierce midfield battles, swift transitions and well-timed defensive interventions from both sides.
Neither team succeeded in breaking the deadlock, but the intensity underscored the competitive edge that has become synonymous with the Maritime Cup.
The turning point arrived shortly after the interval. In the 49th minute, Samad Ojikutu capitalised on a defensive lapse to put ENL ahead, triggering a shift in momentum that saw the port operator maintain control for much of the second period.
As LTT pushed forward in search of an equaliser, gaps began to appear, and ENL seized the opportunity. Their persistence paid off in the 83rd minute when Paul Uchechi delivered a composed finish, sealing his team’s victory.
Tournament action resumes today, with two headline fixtures scheduled at the NPA Sports Ground. Five-time champions Nigeria Customs Service will square off against three-time champions Nigerian Ports Authority at 9 a.m. in a clash widely expected to be one of the group stage highlights.
Later at 12 noon, defending champions Comet Shipping will test their title credentials against the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), promising another fiercely contested encounter as the competition gathers momentum.