The Former Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in Ebonyi, Hon. Charles Akpu-Anika, has commended Governor Francis Nwifuru for floating a new football club for the state, Abakaliki FC.
Akpu-enika who is presently a Legislative Aide to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, said that the decision would return smiles on the faces of soccer fans in the state.
The 'Game Changer' as he is fondly called, said that the team's participation in the forthcoming Nigeria National League (NNL) season would signify the return of soccer blitz to Abakaliki fans.
"Since the disbandment of Ebonyi Angels FC in 2007, Ebonyi soccer fans have yearned for weekly soccer action in the state.
"The last administration which I served under tried its best to float a soccer club and that aim nearly came to fruition as we completed all formalities.
"The floating of the soccer club presently is a good development and we hope that the club will do the state proud."
The former Commissioner urged the management of the team to ensure that good players are recruited into the team to ensure a successful NNL participation.
"The team should strive to earn promotion into the Nigeria Premier Football League to enhance the football status of the state.
"Facilities that would assist the team showcase their talents are in place at the Pa Ngele Oruta stadium as they are expected to thrill fans with tasteful soccer,"
He commended his Successor-- the present Commissioner for Youth And Sports, Richard Idike for his versatility and doggedness in ensuring the floating of the team.
"Idike, my Bossom Friend, has sustained the legacies we left behind and such continuity has enhanced sports in the state.
Akpu-Anika commended the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, for providing the facilities that would enable sporting talents in the state to showcase their talents when he was the state's governor.
"He reconstructed facilities at the Pa Ngele Oruta stadium, making it one of the best in the country.
"He also constructed a Class Athletes Camp within the stadium premises, which is the best in the country, and this will be of immense benefit to the team.
"It is hoped that by the time the Olympic stadium in Abakaliki is completed, the team will be playing on one of the best facilities in the country."
