In Ebonyi, State, the protracted lack of interest by past administrations in sports development has greatly affected the progress of the sector in terms of youth empowerment.
However, Governor Francis Nwifuru's inspirational policy intervention in sports sector including the acquisition of a new professional football team Abakaliki FC has reinvigorated the passion and promotion of sports at all levels.
The member representing Abakaliki North Constituency in Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Dr Victor Nwoke's recent introduction of the Urban Capital City Unity Cup landmark mark bollandmark boosts sporting activities in the state.
The kick-off ceremony a few days ago at Station Urban Primary School Nkaliki attracted the state executive council members including the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Prince Richard Idike, the Commissioner for Works, Engr Lebechi Mbam and many of the state lawmakers including Abiri Godwin Abiri, Ogbuewu and other dignatories.
Addresignatoriesressmen during the fiesta the donor of the trophy, Dr Victor Chidi Nwoke said he embarked on that project as part of his part to Governor Nwifuru's huge investment in the sports sector. He also thanked the capital city urban dwellers for their massive support to him during his election in the 2023 general elections adding that it will be an avenue to harness potential talents for further professional development.
The Chairman of the Central Organizing Committee, Pius Nwankwo who is also the Special Assistant to Governor Nwifuru on Sports Development commended the lawmaker for embarking on such a gesture which is alternatively directed to the interest of youths.
According to Nwankwo who is also a former Gambia International and completed in the Netherlands professional league in his active professional days noted that the organization of the competition will be the principle on a professional basis to ensure its success.
Meanwhile, in the opening match for the Motor Cycle Site FC thrashed Scrap Dealers FC by three goals to nothing.
The chairman of Motorcycle Site, Ogbuefi Nwabueze Awoke Ekuma commended his boys for their excellent performance and urged them to sustain it until they carry the trophy.
The matches of the tournament will continue in various places for the fourteenth competing teams including In Presco football pitch, Nkaliki Primary School and Station Urban Primary School Kpiri Kpiri.
