Community Secondary School (CSS) Nwofe Agbaja was agog with ovation and victory songs as the players of Ekumenyi Development Centre clinched the golden trophy of the Izzi Football Association (IFA) 2024 inter-Development Centres football competition.
In a thrilling final match, the defending champions of Ekumenyi Development Centre secured a 1-0 victory against their determined rivals from Izzi Development Centre. The winning players were ecstatic not only to have reached the finals but also to retain their championship status, taking home the coveted trophy again in this year's tournament.
The Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, applauded the Ekumenyi players for their stellar performance. He highlighted the tournament's role in promoting love, unity, and youth talent development among the Izzi people. The Governor, while offering financial support to the winners, urged them to remain focused and disciplined, noting that such attributes could pave the way for their participation in larger football leagues.
Expressing immense pride, the Executive Chairman of Abakaliki Local Government, Chief Hon. Stephen Ebere Nwogba, celebrated Ekumenyi Development Centre's back-to-back victory. He extended gratitude to the players and key stakeholders for upholding the pride of Abakaliki Local Government.
The Honourable Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Ebonyi State, Hon. Richard Idike and his Works counterpart, the Chairman of the event, Engr. Lebechi Mbam appreciated Governor Nwifuru for providing good atmosphere for the youths to be useful in Ebonyi State as leaders of tomorrow.
Also, the Coordinator of Ekumenyi Development Centre, Hon. Chika Nwibo, congratulated his players for their outstanding performance. He offered words of encouragement to the other teams, urging them to intensify their efforts for future success.
In a related remark, Hon. Obinna Nwedu, the Coordinator of Igbagu Development Centre, lauded the tournament's significance. He commended Governor Nwifuru's commitment to fostering peace, unity, and progress in Izzi land and across Ebonyi State through sports and other unifying activities.
The 2024 IFA competition has once again showcased the unifying power of football, leaving the Izzi people with a renewed sense of togetherness and hope for the future.
