It was all smiles, pride, and patriotic cheers at State House Nairobi as President William Ruto hosted Nairobi United Football Club, the unlikely but triumphant winners of the FKF Cup, a team many had written off, now basking in national glory.
Addressing the players and their coaches, President Ruto praised the team not just for their victory, but for what they represent: unity, resilience, and the power of belief.
“You have to always believe in yourself and trust in God,You make us very proud. I see a national team here a team of the Kenyan community, a team with the face, brand, and architecture of Kenya. From different communities, faiths, and backgrounds, you have gelled into one formidable team. That’s how our Nation should be. That’s why I’ll stand against the politics of ethnicity.”Ruto affirmed
The President added a touch of generosity to the celebration, announcing a donation of KSh10 million to the team’s five investment groups and confirming their request for a modern team bus had been granted.
“Nobody could imagine a small team with no big wins could lift this cup. Success doesn’t come easy you deserve it,” he said. “We as government made a decision to support sports fully. The Sports Fund will now only be used to build infrastructure. We are building a KSh35 billion stadium at Jamhuri, which will be ready by December, and more across the country.”
Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson, whose foundation owns the club, recalled how far the team had come since he took over.
“When I took over this team, most of the players didn’t believe in themselves,We’ve mentored them not just for the pitch, but for life. Our goalkeeper Earnest Mohamed saved eight penalties and became MVP and it’s rare for a keeper to win that.” Sakaja reflected.
Sakaja, beaming with pride, emphasized the team’s humble beginnings and the spirit that carried them to victory.
“This club runs on a limited budget, but we beat teams with bigger bank accounts. In this country, it’s not about those with millions in their accounts, but those with millions of ideas in their minds and hearts.”He said
He also called on the President to rename the tournament the “Ruto Golden Cup” and to consider dedicating land for Nairobi United, AFC Leopards, and Gor Mahia for training and recreation purposes.
“This team restores hope to our youth. With discipline, diligence, and focus, you can achieve anything. We are grateful for your investment in sports and the creative economy.”
Sakaja also highlighted the ongoing development of five stadia in Nairobi Woodley, Kihumbuini, City Stadium Joe Kadenge, Mwiki, and soon Riruta promising a better future for grassroots sports.
As Nairobi United’s improbable journey from underdogs to national champions inspires a generation, their story has become more than a sports tale it’s a blueprint for Kenya’s unity, ambition, and untapped potential.
“Today you are a family, you are a team and together you have won. That’s why we are celebrating you. Pongezi,” President Ruto concluded.
Nairobi United, famously known as Naibois, emerged champions of the 2024/2025 FKF National Super League and got promoted to the FKF Premier League for the first time. The team also went on to win the Mozzart Bet Cup after beating Gor Mahia in final held at Ulinzi Sports Complex a fortnight ago.
