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Ozara Community Lauds Obioma Okorie for Constructing Modern City Gate

The people of Ozara community in Oru West Local Government Area of Imo State have expressed their deep appreciation to Dr. Obioma Okorie (Nwa Ji Ugo Nnaya) for his philanthropic gesture in building a modern city gate for the community, the Statesman Newspaper can exclusively report.

Dr. Okorie, widely regarded as the Dangote of Oru Nation, has once again demonstrated his commitment to the growth and development of his people.

The state-of-the-art city gate, located at the entrance to Ozara through Amorka, is being celebrated as one of the finest in the South-East region. Built to international standards, it has become a source of pride for the community, symbolizing progress and enhancing security in the area.

The commissioning of the city gate, which took place on Thursday, January 3, was a grand event attended by notable dignitaries, including the Oru West Apex Leader, Distinguished Senator Osita Izunaso, who represents Orlu Senatorial Zone. Senator Izunaso officially commissioned the gate in the company of prominent political leaders such as Chief Honourable Ralph Nwosu, the Imo State Commissioner for Works; Honourable Engineer Ikenna Adikibe, the Chairman of Oru West Local Government; Honourable Oguchienti, the Commissioner for Power and Electricity, and a host of other political appointees.

A large number of Ozara indigenes turned out for the ceremony, applauding Dr. Okorie for his unwavering dedication to the development of his hometown. Honourable Asimonye Udennaka, the councillor representing Ozara Ward, described Dr. Okorie as a visionary leader who has steered the community toward progress. “His leadership has brought growth and significant development to Ozara,” Honourable Udennaka stated during a brief interview with The Statesman Newspaper correspondent.

The President-General of the Ozara Town Union, Mr. Kingsley Azarama, also praised Dr. Okorie’s contributions, calling him a man with the “Midas touch.” “Everything he touches turns to gold,” Azarama remarked, commending the exceptional standard of the city gate.

Chief Demian Odimgbe, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee for the Ozara Day celebration, echoed similar sentiments, describing Dr. Okorie as a man with a kind heart who deeply understands the needs of his people. “His generosity and foresight are unparalleled,” Chief Odimgbe added.

The Town Youth Leader, Barrister Moses Anire, speaking on behalf of the community’s youth, hailed Dr. Okorie as a friend of the younger generation. “He is an exemplary leader who has set a standard worthy of emulation,” Barrister Anire said, emphasizing how Dr. Okorie continues to inspire and empower the youths of Ozara.

Dr. Obioma Okorie, a successful businessman and the CEO of Obioma Enterprises, is a well-known distributor of Dangote products and leading cement brands in the South-East. He is also a significant figure in the real estate industry and was recently awarded Imo SWAN Sports Motivator of the Year.

The commissioning ceremony concluded with vibrant cultural displays, including performances by masquerades and community women groups, adding a festive touch to the memorable event.

The Ozara community has once again reaffirmed their unwavering support for Dr. Okorie, thanking him for his generosity and for being a pillar of growth and inspiration.

Imo Sports Commissioner challenges players to showcase their talents

The Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Everestus Obinna Onyeocha has challenge players of Imo Sports Carnival to showcase their talents for possible selection as representatives of the state in both national and international competitions.

Speeking at the kick-off of the carnival being organized by the Imo State Government through Ministry of Sports in conjunction with the Imo Diaspora Global Organization held at the Dan Anyiam Sports Stadium, Owerri on Wednesday, the Commissioner said that the essence of the carnival is to scout for players that would represent the state in both national and international competitions

The Commissioner announced that the winner of the competition will go home with a sum of N1m while N500,000 will be presented to the second runner as the case may be

However the carnival kick started with Team Oru West beating their opponent Team All Stars of Okigwe 2-0

The former Heartland player Adachi Emmanuel scored the first goal for Team Oru East during the first half while Vincent Ikechukwu scored the second goal to emerge winner of the match during the second half.

The carnival will be wrapped up on Friday 3rd January 2025.

ENIC Chairman Delivers Inspiring New Year Message

By Silvernew

As the ENIC Tennis League enters a promising new year, the Chairman of ENIC, Deacon Ugboaja Onyekwere Samuel, has shared a heartfelt and forward-looking message with the ENIC family. Reflecting on the league’s achievements and charting a roadmap for its continued growth, the Chairman’s message was one of gratitude, vision, and determination.

A Successful Year in Review
Deacon Ugboaja highlighted the league’s remarkable progress over the past year, noting the absence of controversies, disputes, or injuries. “To God alone be all the glory,” he remarked, expressing gratitude for the league’s smooth operations and harmonious atmosphere.

A Call to Action for ENIC’s Future
The Chairman emphasized the collective vision of making ENIC an international brand and urged all member clubs to contribute to the league’s growth and success. He outlined five key objectives:

1. Strengthening the league’s foundation to ensure an enjoyable experience for all members.

2. Promoting the growth of tennis and the league to attract new clubs.

3. Upholding sportsmanship, fair play, and mutual respect.

4. Creating opportunities for socialization, networking, and community engagement.

5. Aggressively marketing the league to establish its global presence.

Upcoming Developments and Initiatives
Deacon Ugboaja also shared updates on some significant projects, including:

Employing NTF-certified chair umpires during the Super 4 Finals.

Announcing future hosts during the closing ceremony of the Super 4.

Encouraging individual sponsorship of exhibition sports such as table tennis, scrabble, badminton, and draughts.

Attracting multinational corporations as league sponsors.

A Legacy of Support and Gratitude
The Chairman extended heartfelt thanks to various individuals and organizations that have contributed to ENIC’s success. Special mention was made of CUTIX PLC, led by Mrs. Oduonye Ijeoma, for their unwavering support over 25 years. He also commended club presidents, trustees, predecessors, and management team members for their dedication.

“I give out my heart to all the club presidents, the major stakeholders of the league, who have done so well to uplift the league,” he said. “To our trustees, you have justified your appointments by making ENIC your personal concern.”

Deacon Ugboaja singled out individuals like Dr. Kachi Nwoga, Sir Emeka Azie, Arc. Ikenna Opara, and Mr. Charles Duruaku for their exemplary commitment to the league. He also expressed appreciation to the management team and looked forward to working with the Aba Sports Club (1926), hosts of the 2024/25 Super 4 Finals, predicting an unforgettable event.

Rallying for the New Year
As the ENIC Tennis League serves up another year, the Chairman called on all members to rally together, support the management, and make 2024 an unforgettable chapter in the league’s history.

“Let us make this new year a remarkable one for our league,” he urged. “May your serves be hard enough for aces and your volleys more precise.”

With a vision of growth and collaboration, the ENIC family begins the year with renewed energy and optimism.

Dr. Kachi Nwoga Champions Sports as a Catalyst for Mbaise Nation’s Development

By Silvernews

In a remarkable event marking the relaunch of Silversport Football Club and Wakawaka Queens, Dr. Kachi Nwoga, a renowned medical professional, former volleyball champion, and ex-local government administrator, has emphasized the pivotal role of sports in fostering the growth and development of the Mbaise Nation.

Speaking at the relaunch ceremony in Aboh Mbaise, the former Imo State governorship candidate highlighted how sports can unite communities, nurture talent, and drive economic opportunities. “Sports is the leading vehicle for the development of Mbaise Nation,” Dr. Nwoga declared, underscoring the need to integrate sports into every facet of the region’s growth strategy.

Drawing from his tenure as a local government chairman, Dr. Nwoga shared his efforts in encouraging youth participation in diverse sports activities. He cited football as a prime example of a sport with the potential to create wealth and foster unity in Mbaise Nation. “Investing in sports not only enriches lives but also builds a productive and healthy society,” he explained.

Dr. Nwoga commended the CEO of Silvernews Communications, publishers of Silvernews and Wakawaka Sports Extra, Mr Kennedy Onwunali for this visionary efforts in reviving the football club and initiating the Mbaise Nation Football League. The league’s recent championship, won by Platinum FC, stands as a testament to the region’s growing passion and talent for the game.

He urged the people of Mbaise to integrate sports into their cultural celebrations and development agenda, envisioning a future where sports serve as a unifying and transformative force for the community.

Mazi Amanze Uchegbulam Lauds Imo Sports Commissioner for Visionary Leadership.

Chairman Emeritus of the Imo State Football Association, Mazi Amanze Uchegbulam, has commended Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, the Imo State Commissioner for Sports Development, for his exemplary leadership and dedication to advancing sports in the state. The commendation was made during a meeting between the two at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.

Mazi Uchegbulam, who also served as the former Vice Chairman of the CAF Appeals Committee, expressed admiration for the Commissioner’s inclusive administrative approach. He noted that this style of governance has played a significant role in fostering growth across various sports disciplines in Imo State, encouraging greater participation and development.

Speaking the seasoned sports administrator congratulated Hon. Onyeocha for his efforts in creating a thriving sports ecosystem. He emphasized that such inclusive and visionary leadership is vital to sustaining and enhancing the achievements recorded so far in the state’s sporting sector.

Mazi Uchegbulam also urged the Commissioner to intensify preparations for the forthcoming National Sports Festival slated for next year. He described the event as an opportunity to showcase Imo State’s sporting talents and further solidify its reputation as a hub for athletic excellence.

The save as a platform to review the state’s sports development agenda and inspire future initiatives. Both leaders expressed optimism about the prospects of sports in Imo State, with at shared commitment to achieving greater heights in the new years .

Ezeala Uche Shares His Journey from Rangers International to Damissa FC in Benin Republic

By Silvernews

Former Rangers International player, Ezeala Uche, has opened up about his transition to the Benin Republic’s football league after joining Damissa FC in September 2024. The talented Centre back/Defensive midfielder expressed his happiness with the team and its management while reflecting on the unique experiences he has encountered since moving to the neighboring country.

“Adapting to a new football life in the Benin Republic was not really hard for me,” Uche said. “It is a different football league with a different atmosphere, but their fans are lovely and wonderful.”

Facing Challenges in a New Environment
While Uche adjusted quickly to his new surroundings, he admitted that the language barrier posed an initial challenge. “My little challenge is the French language,” he explained. “I speak English, but I’m catching up real quick with the necessary phrases needed to interact with my teammates on the football pitch.”

Comparing the Nigerian and Benin Football Leagues
When asked to compare the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) and the Benin Football Federation (FBF), Uche highlighted the competitiveness and determination required in both.

“Both leagues are great in their own way,” he noted. “In both, you have to put in your best to achieve victory, either in home or away games. Winning matches in both leagues comes with merit and determination.”

Future Aspirations
Uche, who previously played for GoRound FC, 3SC, and Niger Tornadoes (on loan) before returning to 3SC and eventually winning the NPFL title with Rangers International, remains focused on his current club.

“I look forward to putting my best into my current club, Damissa FC, because our goal is to play every game at the same pace,” he said. “I also look forward to bigger opportunities, and I pray they will come in God’s timing.”

Uche’s journey exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of players navigating the challenges of transitioning between leagues, languages, and cultures. For now, the talented Centre back/Defensive midfielder remains committed to making an impact at Damissa FC while keeping an eye on future opportunities in his football career.

From Chicago to the World: Amanze Egekeze’s Inspiring Basketball Journey

By Silvernews

Amanze Egekeze, a Chicago native with roots in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, has carved an extraordinary path in professional basketball. After an impressive college career at Belmont University, where he honed his skills and studied Business, Egekeze embarked on a globe-trotting professional career spanning seven years and six countries, including Japan, Greece, France, the Netherlands, Finland, and now Spain.

Egekeze also had the honor of donning the green and white for Nigeria’s national team, representing his homeland in Afrobasket and FIBA World Cup qualifiers. While the experience was unforgettable, he didn’t shy away from calling out the persistent challenges within Nigerian sports administration, including corruption and unpaid dues.

As a lifelong Kobe Bryant fan, Egekeze’s passion for basketball ignited watching the Lakers legend, inspiring him to pursue the game at the highest level. Despite dealing with a lingering injury, his resolve remains strong for the future.

Looking ahead, Egekeze is committed to finishing the season strong and giving back to the sport and community that shaped him. He plans to become more involved with the Imo State Basketball Association, launch a foundation to empower youth, and invest in Nigeria’s future basketball talents.

“Invest in our youth,” Egekeze passionately appeals to fans worldwide. “The future is bright if we channel our resources into the right places.

“From his rise as a Division 1 star to a seasoned international pro, Amanze Egekeze’s journey is a testament to resilience, ambition, and a deep love for the game.

Silversports Football Club Set for Grand Relaunch in Aboh Mbaise

The vibrant football community of Imo State is set to witness the historic relaunch of Silversports Football Club And Wakawaka Queens,Aboh Mbaise, tomorrow. This milestone event promises to reshape the football narrative within the Mbaise nation and beyond.

Established in 1999 by Kennedy Onwunali, a former Concord FC of Abeokuta player, Silversports FC was born out of passion and resilience following an injury that curtailed Onwunali’s promising football career. Channeling his love for the game, he initially formed a team in Lagos, drawing players from the Bode Thomas area to compete against other local teams. Upon his return to Imo State, he continued nurturing the club, emphasizing discipline both in play and appearance.

The club achieved notable feats, including traveling to Enugu for friendly matches in 2010 and competing in the Imo State Football Association League. However, logistical challenges led to a temporary withdrawal from the league as the focus shifted to grassroots development, nurturing young talents with a vision for the future.

Now, after years of preparation, Silversports FC is ready to reclaim its position in the football community. The relaunch will feature a program designed to highlight the transformative potential of football within the Mbaise nation. Keynote speaker Dr. Kachi Nwoga will delve into the business side of sports, offering insights on how to build sustainable careers in the lucrative football industry.

A highlight of the event will be a thrilling match between Mbaise All-Stars—comprising retired sportsmen, women, and notable personalities in the sports world. The venue for this monumental occasion is the National Sports Commission Zonal Office in Nkwogwu.

The event will also include the official presentation of the team’s Sporting Director, Mr. Mr Daniel Ufomadu, and unveil key partners who will be instrumental in the club’s resurgence.

Silversports Football Club’s relaunch marks a new chapter in its storied history, promising a brighter future for football in Mbaise and beyond.

Ebonyi House of Reps member identifies culture as tool for societal upliftment

The Member representing Onicha/ Ohaozara/ Ivo (OHANIVO) federal constituency of Ebonyi at the House of Representatives, Dr Nkemkanma Kama has said that culture is a tool for generational change.

Kama made the assertion at Onicha Igboeze, Onicha Local Government Area (LGA) of Ebonyi during the second edition of his annual cultural carnival tagged “OHANIVO Unity Carnival”.

The federal lawmaker said the carnival will showcase the rich cultural heritage of his constituency including the grand finale of the “Face of OHANIVO Beauty Pageant”.

“The carnival will also showcase the OHANIVO talent hunt, with all anchored on the theme: Celebrating our heritage, building our future together.

“This reflects our unwavering belief in communal power and the use of culture to lay a solid foundation for generational change.”

He recalled that the carnival was conceived with the vision of strengthening communal bond and celebrating rich cultural heritage.

“I am overwhelmed with the turnout and successes recorded during the inaugural event which proves that the constituency is united.

“I am optimistic that this year’s carnival would bring greater commitment to unity,, peace, and progress of the constituency.”

The Labour Party legislator commended Gov Francis Nwifuru for his exemplary leadership and providing the enabling environment’ for National Assembly lawmakers from Ebonyi to operate.

“This has enabled us provide impactful representation to our constituents without unhealthy interference.

“We should therefore reflect on the importance of unity and championing causes which uplift our communities during this festive season.”.

The carnival recorded a mammoth crowd with distinguished individuals in the society receiving various awards.

One of the awardees, Chief Roy Umahi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) commended the lawmaker for organising the carnival, noting that it has brought the people together.

The Chairman of the constituency’s traditional rulers forum, HRH Godwin Akpandu prayed God to bless and bestow wisdom on the lawmaker for greater service to the people.

Highlights of the event include: talent hunt, wrestling, singing and dancing competitions, beauty pageants, traditional cultural performances, carnival parades among others.

Former Solad CHIEF BARR MRS OGECHI NJOKU-EHIRIM Brings Christmas Joy to Widows in Aboh Mbaise and Ikeduru

By Silvernews

This year, despite its challenges, Barrister Mrs. Ogachi Njoku-Ehirim, the former Sole Administrator of Aboh Mbaise, demonstrated her unwavering commitment to community service through her foundation’s annual Christmas outreach. In the spirit of the season, widows from various communities across the two local government areas (LGA) were not left out, as they shared in the joy and blessings of Christmas.

The initiative, which has become a cherished tradition, saw Mrs. Ehirim extending her foundation’s goodwill to widows in Aboh Mbaise and Ikeduru LGAs. Among the recipients were the widows in her husband’s immediate community in Ikembara, who expressed gratitude for her consistent support and love during the festive season.

Mrs. Njoku-Ehirim acknowledged that 2024 was a tough year for many but emphasized her gratitude to God for His faithfulness. “Despite the challenges, God has proven Himself faithful, and we are grateful to end the year in praise,” she remarked. The widows, who received various gifts consisting of wrappers, rice, condiments etc, expressed their appreciation for the impactful gesture.

Through this annual outreach, Mrs. Ehirime continues to uphold her commitment to empowering and uplifting vulnerable groups within her community. The foundation’s generosity has brought not just material support but also a renewed sense of hope and joy to widows during the festive season. To God, she insists, be all the glory.