The energetic and lively Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State was filled with joy and celebration as the highly anticipated Unity Cup tournament, organised by the Kingsley Obiukwu Foundation, came to a thrilling conclusion with Ukpor Town crowned champions.
The Kingsley Obiukwu Foundation Unity Cup 2024 brought together 10 communities unified in the spirit of sportsmanship. After an intense series of matches between the towns, including Ukpor, Unubi, Ezinifite, Amichi, Osumenyi, Akwa-Ihedi, Ebenator, Utuh, Azigbo, and Ekwulumili, Ukpor Town emerged victorious, claiming the championship title amidst cheers and jubilation from the enthusiastic spectators.
In recognition of the hard work and accomplishments of the participating towns, the first prize of N700,000 was awarded to the winner, Ukpor Town. Unubi Town received N500,000 for finishing as runners-up, and Ezinifite Town received N300,000 for securing third place. The remaining seven towns each received N70,000 as a token of appreciation for their participation and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
Speaking at the event, the chief host, Kingsley Obiukwu, commended the champions for their tenacity and exemplary show of sportsmanship. He also stressed that every participating community is victorious for maintaining camaraderie throughout the tournament.
Kingsley further noted that the tournament aims to create a platform to celebrate talent and build unity in the community.
He stated: “We celebrate our champions, Ukpor, for their show of tenacity and sportsmanship. Everybody who was involved in this tournament is victorious for maintaining the peace enjoyed throughout the tournament.”
“The Kingsley Obiukwu Foundation Unity Cup 2024 was more than just a football tournament; it was a powerful force for unity and collaboration in Nnewi South. Through football, the towns came together, fostering friendships, strengthening bonds, and encouraging mutual respect and cooperation.
“The distribution of over 5,000 bags of rice to residents of the 10 participating towns earlier in the year, combined with the Unity Cup, underscored the Foundation’s commitment to uplifting the community and ensuring that both basic needs and cultural values are supported.”
One of the players from the winning town, Nwosu Timothy, expressed his profound gratitude to the foundation. He called on other illustrious sons of the Nnewi community to imbibe such initiatives aimed at empowering the youth.
“On behalf of my teammates and my beautiful town Ukpor, we thank Kingsley and his great team. We call on other illustrious Nnewi sons to get involved with empowering youths through sports, art, and other initiatives that will foster unity and development not just in Nnewi, but in Igboland in general,” he said.