Lagos, Nigeria – In a lively and colorful ceremony on Saturday, December 14, 2024, Hon. Mrs. Ashara Maureen Chika (Ugosimba), Vice Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area (LGA), officially inaugurated the Ohaneze Ndigbo Youth Wing Football Team at the Progress Primary School field.
The event drew prominent dignitaries, community leaders, and sports enthusiasts, underscoring the significance of the initiative. Among the notable attendees were Chief Sunday Osai, President of Ohaneze Ndigbo Lagos; Chief Chinedu Okafor (Mmilli Malu Ugo), Youth Leader of Ohaneze Ndigbo Oriade LCDA; Chief Chidi Odiegwu (Ogbuefi Ifeadikanwannemmadu), Vice Chairman of Ohaneze Ndigbo Oriade; and Prince Emechebe Pattern of Ohaneze Ndigbo Oriade LCDA.
In a symbolic moment, Hon. Mrs. Chika kicked off the ball, signaling the official launch of the football team. Addressing the gathering, she lauded the initiative, emphasizing its potential to unite the Igbo youth in Lagos while nurturing talent and fostering cultural pride.
“This project represents our collective dedication to empowering our youth and strengthening the bonds within our community. Sports provide a powerful platform to inspire discipline, teamwork, and resilience,” Hon. Mrs. Ashara Maureen Chika(Ugosimba) stated.
Chief Sunday Osai, in his address, commended Hon. Mrs. Chika for her steadfast support, highlighting the transformative impact of sports on fostering unity and discipline among young people.
The Ohaneze Ndigbo Youth Wing Football Team is poised to compete in local and national tournaments, further cementing its role as a symbol of unity and sportsmanship for Igbo youth in Lagos.
Other distinguished guests at the launch included Amb. Prince Chidiebere C. Ani, Convener of the Mandate Awards; Chief Ngozi Emechebe, Chairman of ASPANDA Market; and Chief Lawrence Chikwado, Chairman of Ohaneze Ndigbo Amuwo Odofin LGA.
The Ohaneze Ndigbo organization, founded in 1976, continues its mission of promoting unity, preserving cultural heritage, and advancing socio-economic growth within the Igbo community. This football initiative reflects the organization’s enduring commitment to nurturing the next generation and fostering collective progress.
