The curtain has lifted on the much-anticipated 2025 Maritime Cup Tournament, organised by the renowned maritime media and public relations firm, Ships & Ports.
The tournament, which began on Tuesday at the NIS Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, saw defending champions Comet Shipping open their title defence with an impressive 2–0 victory over Dangote Ports Operations.
The tournament, now firmly established as one of the most prestigious sporting events within Nigeria’s maritime industry, has once again drawn together a vibrant mix of talent, rivalry, and camaraderie from leading organisations in the sector.
Ten teams are contesting this year’s edition, divided into two competitive groups. Group A features Comet Shipping, Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited (ABTL), 2010 winners Micura Stevedoring Services, and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).
Group B boasts an equally formidable line-up including three-time winners Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), ENL Consortium, LTT Coastal & Marine Services Limited, and six-time champions Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
The opening ceremony was a lively and colourful affair, with players and supporters turning out in full force, their enthusiasm setting the perfect tone for the tournament ahead.
In the opening encounter, Comet Shipping displayed their championship pedigree, dominating much of the match before substitute Stephen Okoli broke the deadlock in the 48th minute.
Seven minutes later, star striker Emeka Chocho doubled the lead, sealing a convincing win for the defending champions.
Despite their best efforts, the Dangote Ports Operations team could not find a way past Comet’s defence, though their determination and teamwork earned applause from spectators.
Speaking after the match, Comet captain Atuma Ifeanyi expressed pride in his team’s performance and optimism for the challenges ahead. His counterpart, Uche Emeka of Dangote Ports Operations, acknowledged the defeat with disappointment but vowed that his side would bounce back stronger in their next outing.
The competition continues today with two exciting fixtures at the NIS Pitch. The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) will face the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in the morning clash, while Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited (ABTL) are set to battle 2010 champions Micura Services Limited at 12 noon.
Sponsored by Micura Services Limited, the 2025 Maritime Cup continues to strengthen bonds within Nigeria’s maritime community, blending corporate pride with sporting passion and showcasing the unity and energy that drive the nation’s maritime sector.