The Coral Football League competition for villages in Afugiri , Umuahia North LGA of Abia State has ended with Umuosu beating Umuagungolori Obiohuru to lift the coveted trophy.
The finals which took place at Williams Memorial School, Afugiri Umuahia amidst colour, passion and community pride Umuosu saw Umuosu that netted two unreplied goals to emerge champions receiving two million Naira while second placed Umuagungolori Obiohuru got seven hundred thousand Naira.
Third placed Umuchukwu Umuekwule went home with a reward of five hundred thousand naira.
Speaking at the colourful ceremony, the sponsor of the competition, Dr Charles Iheanyi Ukeagu, explained that the Coral Football League was organised in honour of his late mother, Elder Mrs Margaret Ukeagu.
Dr Ukeagu described the tournament as a celebration of football, unity and shared joy and lauded the participating teams for their discipline and the professionalism exhibited.
He announced that the league would become an annual event, adding future editions will witness increase prize money for winners and participating teams.
The sponsor further commended the organising committee, officials and referees for the smooth organization and officiating, describing the tournament as a true symbol of unity, brotherhood and oneness in the Afugiri community.
He appreciated the presence of some distinguished dignitaries including: the immediate past Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Orji, former ASEPA General Manager Chief Eze Okwulehie, Mr Obi Onwuzuruike, Mr Emeka Elias, High Chief Enyinnaya Onyekwere, former member who represented Umuahia North State Constituency Chief Kelechi Onuzuruike, founder of Don FM Radio Mayor Lucky Igbokwe, widely known as Don Lulu, and other distinguished guests at the event.
In his speech, the Rt Hon Chinedum Orji, who was assisted by High Chief Enyinnaya Onyekwere during the decoration of the winners, applauded the organizers for their coordination and pledged continued support for the competition, while urging youths to channel their energy into sports and positive pursuits.
Contributing, Mr Iheanacho Uchenna, President of the Ohuhu Welfare Union Youth Wing, and Mr Collins Utah lauded Dr Ukeagu and other contributors for staging a tournament that brought life, excitement and homecoming joy to the community during the festive period.
Azubike uchechukwu David emerged the Most valuable player; best goal keeper went to Odinma Stephen Iroatunmere, while highest goal scorer award was scooped by Ahamefule Chibuike
