By Dorcas Samson Achi
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Imo State Chapter on the 18th of August 2020 inaugurated the State Organizing Committee for PDP Youth football competitions in all the local government areas of Imo State.
The inauguration which took place at the Imo PDP Secretariat Owerri had the honour of the presence of Engr. Charles Ugwuh, the State Chairman of the party who was a former Minister of Commerce and Industry and other state party executive members who assisted him to inaugurate the 13 member committee.
Speaking at the event the State Chairman challenged the party to invest in sports, adding that it can lead to promotion and projection of the party. According to him football is a great marketing tool and opportunity for the youths to utilize and grow in their careers. He emphasized on the need to put resources in the venture to attract financial benefits as well as encourage human capital development.
The State Youth Leader, Mr. Greg Nwadike in his welcome speech stated that the idea to organize the sports competition has been nurtured by the Imo PDP Youth wing for a long time and they need the state officials’ support, blessings and recognition hence requested for the help of the party.
Nze Ray Emeana, the State Secretary while speaking recalled that this is the first time a political party is floating a football tournament. He charged the Committee to set clear standards and withstand the temptations of shifting the goal posts at the middle of the game.
He urged the local government chairmen and youth leaders to take charge because they are responsible for the project and will be held accountable for any failure. He advised them to work closely with the youths.
Emeana also said that if the football competition is turned to a successful crowd event, it will become a strong motivational tool that can harvest talents for exports that will be marketable outside the state.
The Deputy Chairman of the party, Sir Martin Ejiogu, warned the participants to avoid all forms of distractions that may come from the opposition party. He remarked that it should not be seen as money making venture nor be for personal gains instead as a tournament that could be used to harness budding talents at the grassroots.
Members inaugurated include Kelechi Eke (Chairman), Ikechukwu Onyechere (Secretary), Engr Okey Eronini, Saviola Godswill, A.I. C Akwarandu, Collins Opuruzor, Chisom Ojukwu, Arc Nonso Odoemena, Dr. Walter Duru, Chigozie Nwagbara, Uche Bana, Aham Onyenobi, and Emmanuel Nwaebo.
Mr. Kelechi Eke, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee in his acceptance speech thanked the party for trusting him with such a noble initiative and promised to work in synergy with his team to achieve the set goals and objectives. He also applauded those who initiated the idea for their vision and sense of direction and promised to give his all in ensuring the success of the football competition.
