By Blessing Igidi
In a move to foster unity and youth development in Ebonyi State, the Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, representing Abakaliki/Izzi Constituency, Hon. Victor Nwoke, has unveiled the much-anticipated Urban Unity Cup 2025. The unveiling ceremony took place Yesterday, 12 March 2025, at the House of Assembly Complex, Nkaliki Road, Abakaliki.
Hon. Nwoke, in his address, described the initiative as a platform to give back to society in appreciation of the overwhelming support he received during the last election. He emphasized that the project aligns with the People's Charter of Needs policy championed by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Builder Prince Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.
According to the lawmaker, the Urban Unity Cup aims to tackle pressing societal issues such as youth restiveness, drug abuse, the pursuit of illicit wealth, and human trafficking, while providing a platform to harness the untapped potential among Ebonyi’s vibrant youth population.
He further extended his gratitude to Governor Nwifuru for his unwavering support both during and after the elections, pledging the Urban Forum’s commitment to backing the Governor’s re-election bid in 2027.
The Ebonyi State House of Assembly Leader, Rt. Hon. Kingsley Ikoro, lauded the initiative, asserting that power ultimately belongs to God, who alone grants victory. He praised Governor Nwifuru’s leadership, stating that his second tenure is guaranteed, given his exceptional performance.
Rt. Hon. Ikoro further urged Hon. Nwoke to leverage the full support of the House of Assembly in ensuring the tournament’s success. He also called on the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Moses Odonwa, to recognise the project’s potential in fostering peace among Ebonyi youths.
Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Hon. Richard Ugo Idike, represented by Permanent Secretary Comrade Obiesie Ogbonna Hilary, commended the Governor’s People’s Charter of Needs initiative for its widespread impact. He described the tournament as a welcome development that will provide young people with direction, independence, and economic diversification, while unearthing hidden talents in sports.
Comrade Ogbonna urged leaders of markets and transport unions to ensure fair play and adherence to the rules of the game, assuring them of his office’s readiness to provide any necessary assistance. He highlighted that sportsmanship should be upheld, as victory and defeat are integral parts of the game. He further expressed optimism that the tournament would discover future football stars akin to Kanu Nwankwo and Jay-Jay Okocha.
Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Hon. Nwankwo Pius Nwankwo, assured stakeholders that the committee would deliver on its mandate. He urged team leaders to organize their squads efficiently, noting that relevant tournament details would be made available soon.
State Chairman of the Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), Comrade Ukwah Fidelis O, hailed the initiative, highlighting that sports serve as a powerful tool for forgiveness, reconciliation, and social cohesion. He pledged NATA’s participation and urged that the tournament become an annual event to sustain its impact.
In his vote of thanks, Chairman of Ebonyi State Quarry Workers Association, Hon. Nwokporo Emeka, applauded Hon. Nwoke for his dedication to youth empowerment. He reaffirmed the association’s unwavering support for the initiative, commending the lawmaker for keeping his campaign promises.
The high point of the event was the official presentation of team kits, JC official tracksuits, footballs, and the tournament trophy, all of which symbolize the tournament’s commitment to excellence and youth development.
As excitement builds ahead of the tournament, the Urban Unity Cup 2025 is poised to reshape the landscape of youth engagement in Ebonyi State, serving as a beacon of hope, discipline, and empowerment for generations to come.
