In a bid to continue promotion of unity among Ndigbo in Ghana through the game of football, the imperial king of Ndigbo in Ghana, and the Assistant Publicity Secretary Association of Ndieze Ndigbo in the Diaspora, HRM Eze Dr Amb. Chukwudi Ihenetu on Saturday 16th of July kicked of a football tournament entitled: Ezeigbo Ghana Unity cup football tournament.
The inaugural match kick-off took place at Adiringanor Park, East Legon, Ghana and was well attended by Ndigbo and people from all walks of life.
In a statement shortly before the commencement of the march, the Umuduruoha Amaigbo Nwangele Imo state born-Royal Father, HRM Dr. Amb Ihenetu said the participating teams includes: Obi Madina, Ultimate Power, Obi Ihunanya, Obi Amalachukwu, Obi Anwulika and Obi Central Region/ Kasoa Palace.
The statement further states that the football match would take place every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month and will run from Saturday July 16th to September 22nd.
In his remarks, HRM Dr. Amb. Ihenetu, Global peace ambassador, Philanthropist and winner of 2021 Champion Newspapers Personality awards, paid glowing tributes to members, organizing committee which includes Chief Anikwe Obiorah, Mr Daniel Betram, (Danbet), Chief Sir Chima Eke, Prince Chike Nwoye (Jigawa), Rev GoodLuck Uka, Mr Uche Godwin (Shanco) and Chief Chukwuma Onwukwe ( Osi na Nwata buru ogaranya) for their staunch support to ensure that the event succeed.
On Why he initiated the tournament, HRM Dr Amb. Ihenetu said he realised that sports, especially football remain the plank of unity globally.
“With football, our people here can come together and compete for the trophy. The two months long event will engage our youths and bring out the best in them on the pitch.”
Equally, HRM Amb. Dr Ihenetu also thanked the Ghana ministry of sports for their support by making the atmosphere conducive for the event. The Royal Father on behalf of Obiukwu Obieziokwu Palace, wishes all the contestants success in the event.
The opening match was between Obi Ihunanya FC vs Obi Amarachukwu FC which ended 2- 1 against Obi Ihunanya and the second match between Obi Anurika FC vs OBI Kasoa/ Central Region FC which also ended 4 – 3 against Obi Anurika .
The match was graced by four Ghana black stars footballer’s, namely Fatau Dauda, Emmanuel Agyeman Badu, Prince Tagoe and Charles’ Tailor, Ndi Eze-udo, Elders and Chiefs.
The tournament will continues until 17th September 2022.