By Ovat Abeng
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, has kicked-off the Solution Community Shield Football Championship in the state.
The Governor performed the ceremony at the Awka Township Stadium on Sunday, flanked by his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim.
The championship kicked off with a flag-off ceremony, drawing a large crowd of fans from the 21 local government areas of the state.
The large crowd of spectators were treated to an array of music and dance performances, with local artists showcasing their talents to the delight of the crowd.
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179 teams will battle it out for the coveted title.
Speaking shortly before the kick-off, the Governor expressed optimism that the healthy competition will get the youths busy and help to foster inter-community unity and progress.
He recalled that his administration already flagged-off the sports economy in the state, saying that football is part of efforts to guarantee a healthy nation.
The National President, Anambra State Association of Town Unions, ASATU, Barr. Titus Akpudo said that the community football championship promises to be an exciting tournament with a lot of memorable moments, assuring that fans and supporters can expect to witness some thrilling encounters and see some of the community’s most talented young footballers in action.
He noted that the ASATU is ready to execute the Governor’s directives, expressing optimism that from participants, members of the “Solution Football Team”, will be selected.
In their seperate interview with Newsmen, the State Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftancy and Community Development, Hon Tony Collins Nwabunewanne, the State President of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Emeka Odudeme and the Transition Committee Chairman of Idemili South LGA, Mrs Amaka Obi, applauded the initiative which they said will entrench peace and progress in Anambra Communities.
The event was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Solo Chukwulobelu, Deputy Speaker of Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Okoye, Chairman Anambra State Sports Development Commission, Mr Patrick Onyedum, representatives of Nigeria Football Federation, among others.
It featured official kick-off by the Governor, march past by participating Local Government areas as well as a kick-off match between Awka and Ogidi communities.
