Okija, December 4, 2023 – The ABIG NWANKWO FOUNDATION FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT for OKIJA INDIGENES, sponsored by Ichie Chimezie Nwankwo of BIGLY GROUP, kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony on Sunday, December 3, 2023. The event commenced with a procession from St Peter’s Stadium Okija to St Mary’s Field Okija, where the first match unfolded between UMUOHI and UBAHU teams.
Prizes and Logistics totaling N10 million await the winners, with N1 million for the champion, N500,000 for the second position, and N300,000 for the third. Additionally, each participating team received N100,000 upon registration, and two sets of jerseys were provided to enhance team spirit. Individual awards included cash gifts for the Best Player and Highest Goal Scorer, along with an exciting opportunity for players to be selected by foreign coaches.
Dr. Frank Igbojindu, the coordinator of ABIG Nwankwo Foundation and CEO of Akpoazaa Group, shared insights with the press, emphasizing that the tournament’s inception stemmed from Ichie Abig Nwankwo’s commitment to Okija and humanity. The primary objective is to positively engage the youth, especially during the festive season. Dr. Igbojindu announced that this is the inaugural edition and expressed the foundation’s determination to make it an annual tradition.
Recognizing the impact of human capital development on community growth, Dr. Igbojindu highlighted the foundation’s role in fostering Okija’s progress. The ABIG Nwankwo Foundation Football Tournament aligns with their mission to invest in the youth, ultimately contributing to the overall development of Okija.
Mr. Ezentu, the tournament organizer, expressed gratitude for the event’s realization, acknowledging the pivotal role played by the generous sponsor, BIGLY GROUP. He thanked Ichie Chimezie Nwankwo for the remarkable initiative and anticipated a successful and impactful tournament.
Ichie Ikemba Monday Ngobidi, a prominent figure in Okija, emphasized the timeliness of the tournament, noting the collective effort required for Okija’s development. He commended the ABIG Nwankwo Foundation for its commitment to the town’s welfare, especially during a period of need.
Representatives from the BIGLY GROUP, Mr. Chuks, and Mrs. Odigonma (Abig’s younger sister) led the staff and volunteers in support of the event.
It is noteworthy that ABIG Nwankwo Foundation, spearheaded by Ichie Chimezie Nwankwo, an indigene of UMUOHI Okija in Anambra state, has a history of positively impacting the community. The foundation has been instrumental in providing scholarships and empowerment opportunities to numerous beneficiaries, exemplifying a commitment to nurturing the potential of Okija’s youth.
The tournament also offers participants a unique opportunity to showcase their talent, with cash gifts earmarked for the Best Player and Highest Goal Scorer. Furthermore, foreign coaches will be scouting for talent, providing a potential pathway for Okija’s football stars to showcase their skills on a global stage.
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