A grassroots sports enthusiast and strong believer of sports development, Ikenga Johjuld Okere, has said that his motive behind sponsoring the MVP award at the second ediction of the Owerri Basketball Classic, is borne out of his passion for the game.
In an exclusive chat with Wakawaka Sports Extra, Okere described sports as a veritable tool to boost the economy, especially churning out talents from the grassroots.
Okere said: “I’m a strong believer of the development of sports economy be it basketball, football, hockey, any form of sports.
“I believe that through sports we can create employment, export talents across the globe thereby making returns on disposable income in the local community.
“I have always been a strong believer that if we develop sports, some of our youths will get off crime and we want more people do that. That is the underlying factor on why I do what I do.”
According to Okere, choosing Imo State as hosts to the event and the South-East zone at large, will contribute effectively to its progress and place the state in the limelight.
“Imo State and the South-East is like diamond in-depth and you need to have that eye of futuristic entrepreneur to know that you need some level of strategy to tap the economy of the region.
“You need to empower the youths and make them shine, known internationally thereby making money for themselves and families.
“Every diamond will go through a process and that is what we are supporting in our own little way. Basketball is a beautiful game.
“During my higher institution days, I aspired and dreamt of playing the game. For people who are strong and energetic, they should try and engage in the game either as players or professional.”
