By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
Ebonyi real estate mogul and Philanthropist, Engr. Darlington Ugota, has assured players in the just-concluded tournament that he would not abandon them. He gave this assurance shortly after the end of the 1.0 Unity Cup football tournament held at Onueke Township Stadium in Ezza South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The tournament, which brought together football enthusiasts and players from across the region, saw the Green Revolution FC of Onueke emerge as the senior category champions after defeating Azuebonyi FC with a lone goal. In the junior category, the Bombers of Amudo FC claimed victory by thrashing the Flying Pigeon of Idembia.
In his remarks, Dr. Ugota revealed plans to support standout players through scholarships in the newly unveiled Estington Football Academy. “I want to assure you that we are not ready to leave anyone halfway. We have selected some exceptional talents who will automatically be placed on scholarships in the academy. This is just the beginning of a journey to develop grassroots talents and make global stars out of them,” he said.
The Esthinton Football Academy, according to Ugota, will kick off operations at the local government level in Ezza South before expanding to Abakaliki and other parts of the country. He expressed optimism that the academy would create pathways for young footballers to succeed while promoting unity and development in the community.
The event attracted notable personalities, including Governor Francis Nwifuru, who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Richard Idike.
In his address, Idike commended Ugota for his dedication to grassroots sports, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in fostering unity and creating employment opportunities.
“To us, sports used to be just for fun, but now we have realized its financial potential. That is why the state has fully funded the Abakaliki Football Club and remains committed to promoting sports for both employment and revenue generation,” Idike stated.
Barrister Ifeanyi Nworie, chairman of the local organizing committee, highlighted the unifying essence of the Unity Cup and encouraged youths to utilize the opportunities provided by the Estington Football Academy to develop their talents.
The tournament concluded with winners receiving cash prizes. Green Revolution FC claimed the grand prize of 2 million naira, with the 1st and 2nd runners-up receiving 1.5 million and 1 million naira, respectively. In the junior category, Bombers of Amudo FC won 700,000 naira, while the runners-up were awarded 500,000 and 300,000 naira.
The 1.0 Unity Cup tournament ended on a high note, with Engr. Ugota reaffirming his commitment to grassroots development and ensuring that no deserving talent is left unsupported in their journey to success.