By Chigozie Chukwuleta
Anambra State governor Prof Charles Soludo will in a few weeks launch a new standard stadium at Ekwulobia, a move the state government says demonstrates commitment to human capital development and sports infrastructure.
Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Mr Patrick Agha Mba, made public the upcoming launch while speaking after the President Federation Cup quarter-final between Ikorodu City FC and Barau FC at Awka City Stadium on Thursday June 11.
Ikorodu FC advanced to the Semis on penalties after a pulsating encounter that ended 2-2.
“The governor in few weeks to come will be launching the new stadium at Ekwulobia. A standard stadium”.
The commissioner described the upcoming event as a welcome development showing demonstration of commitment to sports development by the governor.
He credited governor Soludo for enabling the successful hosting of the Federation Cup quarter-finals in Awka describing the day as a great day of support and encouragement to the citizens especially sports lovers.
He noted that the match was of high standard and the turnout by fans proves public interest. “The match as played was standard and we are happy the governor provided the enablement for the successful hosting of the quarter finals of the President Federation Cup. I have seen the turn out, people came out to enjoy themselves which supports what I said earlier that the governor’s intention is to move sports from the recreational to creative economy,” he explains.
Agha Mba thanks Ndi Anambra for coming out “enmasse” to cheer Ikorodu City and Barau FC. He says the state is gradually becoming a destination point for football events because of the governor’s investment.
On the performance of state-owned club Solution FC next season, the commissioner says plans are underway to improve the team.
“This is just the beginning of good things to come in terms of expectations for the team next season. The governor is doing everything possible to ensure that Solution FC will come to the level of other big Nigerian clubs,” he stated
He adds that the state FA chairman, Chief Chikelue Iloenyosi has done well and a new program will be rolled out to give Solution FC “the rightful attention.”
According to him, the initiatives planned for next season will “catalyse the needs of the club” and raise its competitiveness.
The commissioner concludes by thanking the governor “immensely for his unwavering commitment towards human capital development holistically.
