By Silvernews
All is set for a star-studded novelty football match in Mbaise as Coach John Amaechi, a Certified Coach from the National Institute of Sports (NIS) and member of the Nigerian Society for Sports Management (NSSM), leads a galaxy of football veterans against former Super Eagles players in celebration of the 60th birthday of Chief Dr. Barr. Obioma Success Akagburuonye.
The novelty encounter, billed for Saturday, February 21, 2026, will take place at the newly built football podium at Oke-Ovoro Secondary School pitch, a facility donated by Akaraugo Mbaise.
Amaechi, who serves as the Technical Head of the event, will parade Hope Rising All Stars, a team comprising notable football figures from Mbaise including Chief Christopher Onwuzurike, Mr. Unity Uzoaga, Dr. Kennet Ahiwe, Mr. Daniel Oparoacha, Dr. Ujoatuonu, Chief Summers Nwokie (Ikukuoma), Coach Emma Dickson and other respected veterans.
They will confront a select side of former Super Eagles ex-internationals drawn from five generations of Nigerian football, spanning the 1980s through the early 2000s, in what promises to be a thrilling showcase of experience, flair and nostalgia.
The match forms part of activities marking the Diamond Jubilee and Biography Book Launch of Akagburuonye, described by organisers as a distinguished kingdom investor and renowned philanthropist whose developmental strides have impacted communities across Mbaise and beyond.
Chairman of the Planning Committee, Hon. Dennis Adikwuru, has called on football enthusiasts, community leaders and the general public to attend the event and participate in the celebrations honouring the legal luminary and community benefactor.
With the blend of veteran stars and former national team heroes expected to rekindle old rivalries and memories, Saturday’s novelty match is poised to deliver both entertainment and a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy transcends sports.
