2022 Imo 3R ISAMATA Markets Football Tournament : Okoronkwo unveils trophy

 

By  Ben AHANONU 

The Commissioner for Sports, Youths and Social Development, Hon. Emeka Okoronkwo has unveiled trophy for the 2022 Imo State Amalgamated Markets and Traders Association (ISAMATA) Markets Football Tournament in a colourful ceremony at the ISAMATA Conference Hall, State Secretariat, Owerri.

Speaking during the occasion on Friday, Hon. Okoronkwo, called for support of all Imo people as he moves to take sports to the next level. He expressed unhappiness that Heartland Football Club (FC) got relegated and vowed to do his utmost to revive the club. He said that Governor Uzodimma is in support of the tournament as he is always interested in what makes traders happy.

Hon. Okoronkwo, said that the unveiling of the trophy was his first major assignment since assuming office and assured that he will give every necessary assistance for the success of the tournament while calling on Imo people especially sports-loving individuals to feel free and come with relevant suggestions and ideas that could be useful in the efforts to revive sports in the State and restore Imo that has produced many talented sportsmen and women to its rightful position in sports.

He commended ISAMATA Executive led by the President, Hon. Emmanuel Ezeanochie for initiating such a laudable tournament that will not only unify traders in the state but also promote their good health.

Speaking earlier, the ISAMATA President, Hon.  Ezeanochie, thanked the Governor,. Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma for his support, assuring that ISAMATA, which 

 comprises 307 markets and biggest organization in the State is solidly with and in support of Gov Uzodimma administration.

Highlights of the occasion were the handing over of football jerseys and balls to participating teams and conduct of draws for the tournament matches across the  three senatorial zones of Owerri, Orlu and Okigwe by officials of Imo State Football Association led by the secretary, Amanze Uchegbulam and and members of the Football Organizing Committee, chaired by the Okigwe Zonal President of ISAMATA, Hon. Chikwendu Ezeigwe.

Recall that the maiden edition of the football tournament, which will kick off on Sunday December 4, 2022 at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, was won by Malaysia Market, Obowo and N2million in prize money.

The event was attended by members of the State Executive of ISAMATA including the Owerri Zonal President, Hon. David Okoko, Orlu Zonal President, Hon. Udoka Mgbemere, ISAMATA State Secretary, Sir DonChris Okere, Financial Secretary, Mr. Peter Etoh,  treasurer Hon. Protus Anayo, Coordinator of Hausa traders in the State, Alhaji Ibrahim Dangali, Provost I, Hon. Abba Vitalis, Provost II, Hon. Kelechi Onyeka and others.