From Felix Ikem, Nsukka
The Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr Lloyd Ekweremadu has said that the Nsukka Town Youths Football League will help to drive the state government’s campaign against drug abuse in the area.
Ekweremadu disclosed this in Nsukka on Monday during the opening ceremony of the Nsukka Town Youths Football League 2023 with the theme “Shoot Out Drug Abuse Among the Youths” held at Ugwuorie field, Nsukka Local Government Area.
He said that the purpose behind the football tournament which is a kick against youth drug abuse is in line with the state government’s agenda to use football and other sports to discourage youths against drug abuse and other social vices.
“I commend the leadership of Nsukka Town Youths Association for their foresight in using this year’s football tournament to create publicity and awareness against youth drug abuse.
“The theme of this football tournament is an indication that the ministry and Nsukka town youths association are working towards a common purpose to kick out drug abuse among the youths in the state.
“Sport is something that brings us together, eliminates our differences, and creates an avenue to engage our youths gainfully and purposefully, so that they can be useful for themselves and society without wasting away.
“Currently, we are collaborating with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on the campaign against drug abuse, not necessary to arrest the youths, but to educate them on the dangers of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking,” he said.
The commissioner assured the youth group that the ministry and the state government would continue to partner with them, not just for the war against drug abuse, but for sports development in the state.
He noted that Governor Peter Mbah is interested in youth development in terms of skill acquisition, entrepreneurship, and agriculture, among others geared towards enabling the youth to become serious contributors to the economic development of the State.
Speaking Chief Walter Ozioko, Chairman of Nsukka local government expressed appreciation to the commissioner for coming to perform the kick-off, of the football competition.
Ozioko commended Gov Mbah for his good plans for youths in the state as disclosed by the commissioner for Youths and sports in the state.
“Youths in the state should be law-abiding so as to benefit from the good packages Mbah’s administration had for them.
“With these lofty packages, youths in the state will contribute their quota in developing the state,” he said.
He commended Nsukka youths’ leadership for the football competition which he noted would not only keep the youths away from crime but also boost their physical fitness and mental alert.
Earlier in a remark, Comr. Onyekachi Omeje, President, Nsukka Town Youths Association said that the youth body is using the passion for football to wage war against drug abuse among youths in the area and to bring positive change to the town.
“The theme of this football tournament serves as a rallying call, urging us to stand together against the challenges that affect the well-being and potential of our youths.
“Through the passion for football, we aim to score goals not only on the pitch but also in the fight against drug abuse. Let every kick, every save, and every cheer be a testament to our commitment to a healthier, drug-free future for the young minds of Nsukka.
“I encourage everyone involved, players, coaches, supporters, and sponsors to be good ambassadors for this cause. Together, let us amplify the message that a life free from substance abuse is a victory worth celebrating. As the league unfolds, may the spirit of “Shoot Out Drug Abuse Among the Youths” inspire us to make a lasting impact beyond the football field,” he said.
He announced that 9 teams registered for the football league, adding that N1,000,000, N750,000, and N500,000 will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd best teams respectively on 31st December 2023, the last day of the tournament.
The first match between Nru team and Ihe team could not be held because of a heavy downpour.
Chief Tony Ugwu, Chairman, Enugu State Football Association was among the dignitaries present during the occasion.
