By Saidu Abubakar
Hopeland FC of Nnewi at the weekend emerged champions of the maiden Igwe Orizu Diamond U-20 Football Championship decided at the Ifeanyi Ubah Stadium, Nnewi.
The team defeated Rangels FC of Achina, Aguata, winning 9-8 on penalty shootouts after a drab goalless at the end of regulation time.
The tournament, held in honor of HRH Igwe K.O.N. Orizu III, JP, CON, of Nnewi who marked 98 years old and 60 years on the throne, was a befitting tribute to the monarch.
The championship was solely sponsored by the son-of-the-soil, Chief Donatus Agu Ejidike JP, Nigeria’s Pillar of Sports.
Speaking at the occasion, Chief Ejidike emphasized the significance of sports in celebrating the monarch’s achievements. He called upon young individuals to embrace sports as a global platform, rallying the people of Nnewi to collaborate in making their city a center of attraction in various fields, including sports.
The Pillar of Sports, known for his dedication to promoting sports, assured of his commitment to supporting youth development. He highlighted the potential of young talents to becoming world stars so as to contribute to the growth of Anambra State and Nigeria.
Also speaking, Prince Chukwuma Ubah, Chairman of FC Ifeanyi Ubah, lauded the organizers for the electrifying championship that caught young talents in action, praising the initiative as an opportunity to groom future stars, coinciding with Igwe K.O.N. Orizu III’s 60th year on the throne, making him the oldest monarch in Nigeria.
Chikeluo Iloenyosi, Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association, in his contribution extended gratitude to Chief Ejidike for enliven football activity in the state. He congratulated the champions, Hopeland FC of Nnewi, and commended the security personnel at the venue for their efforts.
Benjamin Isaiah, President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), emphasized the importance of such tournaments in nurturing young talents and curbing social vices, encouraging private sectors, various organizations and individuals to take inspiration from Chief Ejidike’s efforts in promoting sports.
The celebrant, Igwe Orizu’s presence and support further underscored the significance of the occasion, while the call for heightened engagement from the sports ministry held promise for the future development of the sector.