The city of Owerri came alive recently as the Wakawaka Sports Awards held its much-anticipated first edition — and it was nothing short of memorable!
Hosted at the elegant City Cruz Hotel, one of Owerri’s finest hospitality venues, the event celebrated individuals and organizations that have made remarkable contributions to the development of sports in Nigeria. And leading the charge were prominent members of the Imo State Club Owners Association, who truly stole the spotlight.
Big Night for Imo State Club Owners
It was a proud moment for the Club Owners Association as four of their members were honored with prestigious awards:
Chief Kachi Atufule
Chief P.M.C. Okeke
Hon. Innocent Onwubiko
Coach Nelly Orisakwe, who shared the Young Achievers Award with Harmony Chidi
These recognitions are a testament to their tireless efforts in promoting sports at both the grassroots and professional levels.
Honoring Legends and Unsung Heroes
One of the most touching moments of the night was the Special Recognition Award presented to veteran journalist Elder Theodor Tasie. Known for his deep-rooted commitment to sports reporting, his award was a heartfelt nod to the vital role journalism plays in shaping the sports industry.
Another emotional highlight was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Mr. Sylvester “Bahama” Oparanozie, who has been battling illness. The crowd gave a warm ovation as he received his award alongside Mr. Henry Orji, who has been a pillar of support throughout his health journey.
Big Names, Bigger Achievements
The awards attracted dignitaries and sports leaders from across the country. Engr. Musa Kida, President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, was represented by Mr. Kelechi Anosike, while Dr. Martins Osundu, Chairman of the Badagry Football Council, was on hand to receive his own award for Best Local Government Football Association Chairman.
Mr. Andrew Ekejiuba, Head of Media, GTI, received the Sports Achiever Award, while COPE & Live Foundation / Ebere Amaraizu were honored with the Sports Foundation Award.
Full List of Awardees at the 2025 Wakawaka Sports Awards
Here’s a rundown of those who were recognized:
Coach Dan Anyiam – Posthumous Evergreen Award
Dr. Patrick Ekeji – Pathfinder in Sports Administration Award
Mr. Ebi Egbe (Monimichelle) – Iconic Sports Facility Manager Award
Mr. Andrew Ekejiuba – Sports Achiever Award
Hon. Innocent Onwubiko – Sports Achiever Award
Chief Kachi Atufule – Sports Achiever Award
Mrs. Sabina Chikere – Sports Achiever Award
Chief P.M.C. Okeke – Grassroots Sports Developer Award
Elder Theodor Tasie – Special Recognition Award
Mr. Bahama Oparanozie – Lifetime Achievement Award
Coach Nelly Orisakwe & Harmony Chidi – Young Achievers Award
Comos Chukwuemeka – Young Sports Administrator Award
COPE & Live Foundation / Ebere Amaraizu – Sports Foundation Award
Mr. Charles Duruaku – Sports Achiever Award
Desire Oparanozie – Sports Achiever Award
Dr. Kachi Nwoga – Sports Initiative Award
Dr. Osondu Martins Ibegbu – Sports Achiever Award
Coach Mgbenwelu Ndidi Henry – Grassroots Developer Award
Engr. Musa Kida – Sports Achievement Award
Hon. Obinna Onyeocha – Sports Achievement Recognition
A Celebration of Impact
More than just handing out plaques and trophies, the Wakawaka Sports Awards is a celebration of hard work, passion, and legacy. It’s about recognizing those who are using sports as a tool for change and unity.
Organized by Silvernews Communications, publishers of Wakawaka Sports Extra, the event is set to become a fixture in Nigeria’s sports calendar — and judging by this first edition, the future looks bright, according to the CEO of the company, Mr. Kennedy Onwunali.
