By ALEX Ibeh
In the last couple of months, the Preparation for the discovery of raw football talents in Okigwe Zone, solely sponsored by a Billionaire Real Estate Mogul from South East of Nigeria, High Chief Mike Duru Ejiogu, the AKAEKPUCHI ONWA 1 of Igboland, painstakingly coordinated by Specialists in the Sports Space. One would want to know the purpose of such patronage.
Chief Ejiogu who sponsored the Competition with a whopping Sum of Twenty-five Million Naira (N25,000,000.00) has set the ball rolling. As a seasoned manager in both human and Capital resources, assembled first-rated Sports administrators to coordinate and supervise the Competition. From the Match Officials – referees, assistant referees, to Security Agencies, Medical Teams and Health Officials, providing first aid, injury treatment, and emergency response are in tandem with the vision.
The tournament tagged, “Mike Ejiogu Okigwe Unity Cup” which finally kicked off at the Ihitte Uboma Council Stadium, Isinweke on Saturday 4th October, 2025 attracted fans, Sports enthusiasts and other personalities within Okigwe Zone and beyond.
During the kick off, the benefactor was represented by the Central Organising Committee Hon. Bennet Onyekachi Duru, also at the event was Evang. Achiever Darlington Onyelike, the Managing Director of Flames Real Estate Ltd, Musa Okechukwu, the Local Organising Committee Chairman, among others. The opening game was between the Progressive Stars of Isiala Mbano and Bright Stars of Ihitte Uboma in a fantastic display as the game ended in goalless draw.
Since the Commencement of that Sport, those who are on deck with the matches will appreciate both the donor and the Organizers who worked tirelessly to prepare the stadia, logistics and other essentials of the games.
In the same vein, kudos to them in their mission to promote fair play and community engagement as the Competition lasts, doing their best to improve the welfare and fan experience. They should be commended for playing a crucial role in ensuring that every contest runs smoothly and professionally.
The Chief Executive Officer of CityGate Homes Limited, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja can unarguably be regarded as the Man with the Midas touch in Youth Empowerment, in view of his antecedents. The name Mike Ejiogu is synonymous with Youth Capacity building, for generations to come.
In our Society today; where social, economic, and political challenges continue to threaten unity and progress, sports have emerged as a powerful tool for change. Beyond entertainment, sports possess the ability to inspire, educate, and transform societies. From reducing crime to promoting peace, improving health, and empowering youths, sports offer practical solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems.
No wonder, the Onowu, Traditional Prime Minister of Anara Ancient Kingdom in Isiala Mbano discreetly donated the cup to bridge this gap. If you can share my views on this topic, engaging young people positively will promote discipline, teamwork, and provide opportunities for personal and social development. Through structured sporting activities, idle and frustrated youths can redirect their energy toward productive ventures.
Those who have come in contact with this noble son of Anara, Isiala Mbano, alloting resources in youth championship is far more than a show of wealth or extravagance, rather a strategic investment in the future. The reason is not far fetched- this huge financial commitment is both practical and visionary.
Another cutting edge to this initiative is Talent Discovery and Development. The scheme will unquestionably help identify, train, and develop these talents. Correspondingly, smart ones (Players) will take its advantage as a viable career path, and be motivated to work hard rather than indulge in social vices.
Without mincing words, money is the highest inspiration in sporting activity. This is the reason football enthusiasts have continued to advocate for proper funding in the Nigeria local league. Where there is adequate financial support, sports flourishes. It fuels every aspect of the sporting ecosystem, ranging from discovering talents to developing Professionals, playing in International league. It should not be left for Government, alone. I therefore encourage other spirited individuals to emulate Chief Mike Ejiogu to invest their resources in Sports in developing young talented youths to be World future football icons.
The teeming unemployed youths, ecological and Social problems bedevilling the State have always been a worry to him. Little wonder he has been a source of inspiration to numerous youths of Imo State.
In business and philanthropy this noble son has made great mark. He is a very successful entrepreneur and businessman with a heart of Gold. His believe in Nigeria economy is strong and unequivocal. This belief informed his decision to make investment in real Estate and other sectors of the economy.
Let us not also forget that, his businesses span from real estate, hospitality, travel and tours, manufacturing to Construction. Popular among them is CityGate Real Estate Homes and Resort Company Limited, Abuja.
Beyond his Businesses across the Country, he has made in roads to Sports. Albeit, his venturing into Sports is to give back to the Society. He believes that talent, when nurtured with discipline and purpose, becomes a powerful tool for nation-building. His involvement in youth sports programs and community outreach will give many a platform to showcase their abilities and rise from obscurity to excellence
Interestingly, lookouts have continued to beam their Searchlights on the Players in search of well performers. Among them is the General Manager of Chevron Football Club , Lekki , Lagos State, an offshoot of Chevron-Soccer Consulting Services LTD, Partners of the Sports Management Company (TSM) and Academy, Engr. Henry Iwuanyanwu who made his presence during the Opening ceremony cum kick off Match.
Iwuanyanwu who was represented at the Occasion by a Public Analyst/Commentator, Comrade Evans Duru Popularly known as MC Balogun Commended Chief Mike Ejiogu for setting a ladder for the Youth to climb to the Pinnacle.
While raising hope for the Players, he assured them of a great opportunity in International Club league. This is as he pledged to ensure their sign ups in the National and International clubs, so long as they fall within the Championship Specification.
However, the ongoing Competition contributes to societal development by creating employment opportunities — from coaches and event managers to vendors and media. It also promotes tourism and unity among the Communities. In this way, money in the sport not only develops players but also drives economic growth and social cohesion.
The Real Estate giant, Businessman, Sports lover, Philanthropist par Excellence and above all Imo 2027 Governorship hopeful deserves a Commendation and pat on the back for ensuring sustainability and continuous engagement of youths in positive activities.
