The Ideato South Local Government Authority on Saturday, October 14th, kicked off the Governor Hope Uzodinma Football Tournament. The event which drew youths of the area in their large numbers as well as sports enthusiasts, took place at the Central School 2, Afor-Ukwu, Isikenesi in Ideato South LGA. And the opening match was between Isiekenesi Ward 2 and Dokenafai Ward.
Performing the ceremony, the Sole Administrator of the Council, Honourable Chief Bede Ikeaka, noted that the football tournament sponsored by Governor Hope Uzodinma was a demonstration of the governor's concern and interest towards the welfare of the youths in the state, adding that the exercise would achieve numerous benefits, including the development of talents, meaningful engagements, socialization and promotion of peace in the area.
The SOLAD, who described the exercise as entertaining and capable of promoting unity among the people of the area, however, admonished the players to obey the rules of the game and to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship while the tournament lasted. He stressed the need for them to avoid bitterness and unhealthy competitions during their matches, but to dispose themselves well in order to accomplish the good intentions of the governor.
Picture caption : The match officials with players from Isiekenesi Ward 2 and Dikenafai Ward during the kickoff of Governor Hope Uzodinma's Football Tournament at Ideato South LGA on Saturday, October 14, 2023
He used the opportunity and solicited support for the re-election bid of Governor Uzodinma, emphasizing the importance of allowing him to consolidate on his numerous achievements in the areas of infrastructural development, workers' welfare, elevation of federal institutions in the state and his efforts to secure the state. He urged the youths to vote massively for the governor who has implemented various empowerment programmes for them like the SkillUp Imo Project
Contributing, the Chairman, All Progressive Congress, APC, Isiekenesi Ward 1, Mr. Ifeanyi Ugwumba (Ezebunafor), commended the exercise because of its positive impact, and tasked the players on peaceful dispositions and support for the governor.
While APC Youth Leader/ Football Chairman in the area, Mr. Ajaelo Franklin, who appreciated the governor and the SOLAD, hinted that the tournament would help in identifying exceptional players for sponsorship, while keeping the youths busy against indulgence in crimes. The Vice Chairman of Umuobom Football Association, Mr. Timothy Opkara also spoke in the same vein.
Some of the players, including Ijeoma Chukwuebuka playing for Dikenafai Ward and Olebunne Nzubechi, Isiekenesi Ward 2 in their reactions expressed gratitude to the governor for giving them the opportunity to develop their talents, while promising to support his re-election. The match was officiated by the central referee, Mr. Chijioke Peter and assisted by Nwokeji Chigozie and Iroegbu Uchechukwu.
Meanwhile, the opening match ended with goalless draw at full time only for Isiekenesi Ward 2 to seal their win over Dikenafai Ward during penalty shootouts.
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