Founder of the Soso Pondi Welfare Foundation, Mr Seisingha Joseph Pondi alias Soso Pondi, has described the National Association of Gbaramatu Students (NAGS) successful hosting of its historic programme, tagged 'Aketekpe Summer Sports Event', as “setting a legacy that will inspire future generations of Gbaramatu students and beyond.”

The philanthropist, who was represented by the Foundation's Coordinator, Comrade Oyinkuro Wazo Zikurebai, made the remarks in Oporoza Town, headquarters of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, during the sporting event on October 1, 2025.

The ceremony featured various games competition with participants drawn from houses representing major communities, and parades by schools in the kingdom as part of Nigeria's Independence Day.

Fiyewei House representing Oporoza community clinched the 1st Prize of N500,000k while Akpata House and Ebiabu House representing Okerenkoko and Kokodiagbene communities won 2nd and 3rd Prize of N300,000k and N200,000k, respectively.

Delivering his address on behalf of the founder, the Coordinator said, "The Soso Pondi Welfare Foundation is proud to have witnessed this milestone. We commend the leadership of NAGS for the wisdom, vision, and passion that brought this program to life. Indeed, you have set a legacy that will inspire future generations of Gbaramatu students and beyond.

"As a Foundation committed to creating opportunities and inspiring change, we urge all students and youths to carry the spirit of this program into every sphere of their lives—academics, leadership, and community service. Let this success remind us all that greatness is not a destination but a journey powered by determination, unity, and resilience," he added.

Pondi congratulated the winners of the competitions and all other participants whom he said are "victors", while he also praised the student community and the youths for standing up as one towards achieving excellence.

"To the winners, we salute your determination and commitment. Your triumphs remind us that hard work, consistency, and self-belief always lead to glory. You are not just champions of the tracks and fields, but also champions of perseverance who inspire others to rise above limits.

"To the participants, you are all victors. By showing up, competing, and giving your best, you have embodied the true spirit of sportsmanship. The lessons learned on the field will remain stepping stones to even greater victories in life.

"To the students’ community and the youths, this success is yours. It is proof that when young minds unite around a noble vision, the outcome is excellence. You are the pulse of our future, the drivers of change, and the hope of our communities," he stressed.

The Founder further described the sports event as "a festival of unity" and alluded that the achievements of the programme reflected the intelligence and vigour common among youths.

"The Foundation warmly celebrates the National Association of Gbaramatu Students (NAGS), the outstanding winners, the entire students’ community, and the resilient youths on the remarkable success of the Aketekpe Sports Event.

"This program was more than a competition, it was a festival of unity, courage, and youthful excellence. Every race ran, every game played, and every victory achieved reflected the strength, resilience, and brilliance of our young people. You have all demonstrated that beyond the classroom, sports can be a vehicle for discipline, focus, teamwork, and leadership," he noted.

Other major highlghts of the ceremony was the presentation of prizes to winners and medals to members of the Organising Committee.

View photos here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19edDFpdQb/

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