ANSFA inaugurates the first Anambra All-Stars Tournament as dignitaries grace the opening ceremony. Notable persons at the opening ceremony include the Deputy Governor of Anambra state, the Anambra state House of Assembly Speaker, some House members, and Professors of different disciplines.
Anambra FA Bulletin
June 26th, 2023.
Awka City On Notice As Deputy Governor, Speaker House of Assembly, Ex-Internationals, House Members, Professors, Honorable Commissioners Grace The Opening Ceremony of Anambra All Stars Tournament.
State Commissioner Scores Opening and Only Goal Of The First Match As Awka Capital Elite FC Starts Strong.
It was the gathering of who is who in the state as the much anticipated All Stars Tournament kicked off yesterday at the Awka City stadium. The modern edifice was filled to its rafters as men and women from different sectors trooped in solidarity with the hardworking Anambra FA Chairman Gen Chikelue Iloenyosi.
The event started with a veteran march-past of all 24 teams that registered as they marched in sync with the band that depicted their age. After the marching routine, former captain of U-20 and Green Eagles player Sylvanus Okpala (OFR) addressed the mammoth crowd as he took them back to his starting years as an Anambra boy till he started playing for the Eagles. He acknowledged Iloenyosi for what he has done with football in the state since he took over. The same message of commendation for Iloenyosi came also from former FA secretary Sir Victor Nwangwu, Vice Chairman of ANSFA Engr Victor Aniekwena and Proprietor of Obosi United Mr Uzo Epundu.
The Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo represented by the Deputy Governor of the state, Hon Onyeka Ibezim with his entourage stormed the arena in a sporty way. The Speaker of the Anambra state house of Assembly Hon Somtochukwu Udeze arrived sooner at the arena with some house of assembly members in his entourage. The tournament cake was cut and pre-match rituals were done by the deputy governor, speaker house of assembly, Chairman Sports Commission Hon. Patrick Estate Onyedum and Anambra FA Chairman.
The kickoff game saw Awka Capital Elite All Stars defeat Okpoko All Stars by a lone goal in a match that was more entertaining than it was competitive. Both teams showcased footballing class that is permanent and footballing skills akin to the age range with the mantra of “E dey Body”. The result was the same in the first half but the fun never departed. The introduction of the Honorable Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Mr Collins Nwabunwanne by the coach of Awka Capital Elite All Stars was the turning point in the encounter. Capacity as he is fondly called rolled back the years with a goal of great quality to break the deadlock much to the joy of almost every spectator. That was how it ended as Awka Capital Elite All Stars gained the first bragging rights of the tournament.
There was an award ceremony presented by the Anambra state football association to some deserving few. The deputy governor of the state, Hon Onyeka Ibezim was given an award of excellence; Former Green Eagles goalkeeper, Mr Emmanuel Okala; member representing Oyi Constituency in the state house of Assembly, Hon. Innocent Ojike (OjiCam); National President ASATU, Chief Barr. Titus Nnabuike Akpudo (Ichaka); Former International Mr Sylvanus Okpala OFR; Commissioner for L.G.A, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs Mr Collins Nwabunwanne; Member representing Onitsha North L.G.A and emeritus president of Anambra All Stars Hon. Barr. Pat Okafor; member representing Ekwusigo L.G.A, Hon Sylvester Ofedeme; the Nya 1 of Umunya Igwe Dr Kris Onyekwuluje were all recognized for their outstanding contribution to football development in the state by the FA.
Iloenyosi speaking after the event was grateful to God for such a wonderful ceremony. He thanked the Governor of the state, His Excellency Prof Chukwuma Soludo represented by the Deputy Governor. He appreciated the members of the MOC led by the Chairman, Chief Chijioke Ezenwenwe, he thanked all who came out to support the event in one way or the other as he prayed to God to grant everyone journey mercies back to their respective destinations. Fixtures for the rest of the tournament will be communicated in due time.
Myckie Chukwuebuka
-Communication Director Anambra State Football Association.
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.