Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Lagos State chapter, has reiterated its commitment to promoting the unity of Nigeria through sports, especially football.
President of the chapter, Sunday Ossai, stated this on Tuesday, at a press conference to announce a football tournament involving the 20 Local Government Areas of the State.
According to him, the tournament, the first edition, which would be flagged off on August 20 at the Eagles Club, Surulere, is being organised in conjunction with St. Eve, a club funded by the organisation.
He said, “Our goal is to foster unity between the government and our people; bridge the gap between the people and the government. Our mission is clear, to rally our community to raise awareness and to enlighten our people about the significance of their contributions.”
“The football league is not solely about sports; it symbolizes a catalyst for reconciliation, a vehicle to extract the best potential from our youth. For those with prowess in football, and for those with diverse skills, we invite you to stand with us as we roll out this initiative and many more in the future,” Ossai added.
While calling on other stakeholders and well-meaning members of the organisation, the president noted that the league, encompassing 20 local governments, is a manifestation of the chapter’s commitment under his leadership to promote community engagement and harmony.
“We extend an open invitation to all members of our community, urging them to partake in and support this venture. This noble aspiration guides the endeavours of the project led by Azubuike Eweremadu,” he stated
Speaking at the event, the sponsor of the football tournament, Hon. Paul Onoura aka Nwa Jesus said it was important for sports enthusiasts to encourage youths by engaging them positively.
“Those who have the resources should try to do something for the less privileged, engage the youth because football changes lives. I have seen it happen. This will help bring Igbos together even though the competition is not just for Igbos; it is for every Nigerian to unite us as one,” he said.
Onuora added that the tournament, which will be held at the training pitch of the National Stadium, Surulere, will feature football teams with youth between ages 15 and 17 (U-15 and U-17) from the 20 Local Governments of Lagos State.
On his part, the Technical Director of the tournament, Austin Umezurike, appealed to newsmen to give awareness to the programme, saying “We will continue to engage the up and coming superstars by giving them a platform to showcase their talents.”
