The finals of the 2025 edition of the CICI Championship drew thousands to the Mankaha Stadium on Saturday, August 30, in a celebration of football, unity, and remembrance. Mbebali Football Club defeated Bujong Football Club 1–0, lifting the trophy after an undefeated run through the tournament.
The first place winner, Mbebali FC received 175,000 Fcfa, the second place, Bujong FC got 75,000 Fcfa, and the third place, Manji FC was given 40,000 Fcfa.
Ndonwi Derick Shu, Addressing the Population.The competition, now in its fifth edition, was initiated by Ndonwi Derick Shu in 2021 to honour the memory of his late father, Pa Shu Petermuno (1926–2021), founder of the Zoological Snakes Research Center, and his sister, Asoh Concilia (1991–2021), who passed away in China. The tournament’s name, CICI, is derived from Concilia’s name.
“I thought of a way to revive life in Bafut during a time when our community was deserted by the crisis,” Ndonwi Derick Shu explained. “Sports have the power to animate, to heal, and to bring people together.”
From Njinteh to Seven Villages
Initially limited to the Njinteh quarter, the CICI Championship has expanded significantly. This year, following lobbying by the paramount ruler of Bafut, it was hosted under the Bujong Village Community (VC), which brings together seven villages, Njibujang, Njinteh, Niko, Mbebali, Manji, and Mankaha.
Mujashi Robert Che, Bujong Village Community Vice ChairpersonThe expansion was hailed by community leaders. Mujashi Robert Che, vice chairperson of Bujong VC, praised the initiative:
“The number of villages has grown from one to seven. This tells us the tournament has touched many hearts. The crowd that gathered here today was proof that this competition has truly united our people.”
An Artist Spicing th CICI Championship.A Vision for Peace and Inclusion
Ndonwi Derick Shu revealed that discussions are ongoing with His Majesty Fon Abumbi II of Bafut to extend the tournament across the entire Bafut Fondom. Talks are also underway with leaders in Mankon to create a “Super Cup” between the two fondoms, further strengthening regional ties.
“History shows us that even in times of war, life must continue. Sports can be a unifying factor even amidst crisis,” Derick Shu emphasized. “Today, you could see people jumping together, forgetting past grievances. That is the peace we want to build.”
Nchotu Clevis Neba, Trainer Mbebali FC.Football at Its Best
On the pitch, Mbebali FC proved unstoppable. Their coach, Nchotu Clevis Neba, attributed success to discipline and teamwork:
“Mbebali has never lost a single match since joining this competition. Our players showed team spirit and a peaceful mindset, which mirrors the vision of the donor.”
Guest Artist Greatston Thrilling the Crowd.The event was further enlivened by a performance from popular artist Greatston, adding a festive touch to the finals.
Looking Ahead
The CICI Championship has grown from a small community event into a beacon of hope and reconciliation for Bafut. With plans to scale the tournament across the entire fondom and potentially into inter-fondom competitions, Ndonwi Derick Shu says the ultimate goal is clear: to use football as a tool for peace, unity, and continuity of life, even in difficult times.
“What began as a family tribute has become a community treasure,” Derick Shu noted. “Next year, we will make the championship even more inclusive.”
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