By Akila Matawal
- Hails Stakeholders, Partners
*Inducts Grand Patron of GRASOF
“To God be the glory for His enduring mercies, His ever sufficient grace has made this soccer championship a huge and remarkable success”.
These were the exact words of the coordinator of the NDDC Under 17 Peace Cup, Honourable John Ekpenyong on Sunday at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, where the tournament was concluded.
Ekpenyong, who is the National President of the Grassroots Sports Federation of Nigeria (GRASOF), expressed satisfaction with the manner the week-long event was staged.
“We are indeed very grateful. What started as a dream borne out of our undiluted passion and zeal today has become a reality even against all odds.
He further expressed optimism that the talents discovered will actualize their dreams.
“We are grateful to announce that future Okochas, Esins, Etokebes, Ikpebas, Akwas, Maradonas, Peles, Messis, Ronaldos, Kantes, Enyeamas, Okorowantas… etcetera have been discovered.”
“The youth who are the major beneficiaries are indeed happy for this peace building and talent hunting Initiative…we are sure that they will take good advantage of this golden opportunity offered to maximize their soccer potentials.
Ekpenyong then thanked all who made the tournament successful while inducting Senator Godswill Akpabio as the Life Grand Patron of GRASOF.
“I wish to thank all the stakeholders, members of the LOC, referees, coaches, medical team, media, ex internationals, staff and management of NDDC and the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and everyone for their support.
“May I, at this point, pause to announce and induct Senator Godswill Akpabio (CON) as the Life Grand Patron of GRASOF.” He concluded.