The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D., on Sunday, received an award for his contributions to grassroots sports development.
The award was presented to him by the Next Football Stars Foundation shortly after the grand finale of the Ndokwa/Ukwuani Young Stars Cup.
”Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D, Deputy Governor of Delta State, this Distinguished Grand Patron of Grassroots Sports Development award, in recognition of outstanding leadership and enduring commitment to youth empowerment through grassroots football development, is presented to you today by the Next Football Stars Foundation,” Rear Admiral Mike Onah, OON (rtd), read from the plaque before presenting it to the Deputy Governor.
Sir Onyeme, who was beaming with smiles, had earlier performed the kickoff to commence the final match.
He dedicated the award to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the people of Delta State, noting that the Governor is passionate about sports development.
The Deputy Governor added that Deltans have embraced sports, especially football, which has made them the delight of international football clubs.
”This is one of the ways of ‘catching them young.
“As we are all aware, providing equal opportunity for all Deltans is a central part of the MORE Agenda; therefore, let us continue to encourage sports development in our state.
”Sporting activities keep the youths positively engaged and prepare them physically and mentally for future challenges.
“I commend the Next Football Stars Foundation for organizing this match, which provides opportunities to discover budding talents that deserve to be nurtured to become future champions.
“This is the way to build our nation and place us on the map of the world’s footballing nations.
“Both teams did very well, but one team must win; however, in the game of soccer, everyone is a winner and should be encouraged to be more dedicated and to improve their skills,” Sir Onyeme said.
The Founder of the Next Football Stars Foundation, Udoka Edike, said that the foundation is a youth-focused organization dedicated to empowering young people through football, education, and mentorship.
She noted that the foundation serves as a platform to identify and nurture football talent from local communities, exposing them to national and international opportunities.
The football match featured Team A and Team B, with Team A scoring the only goal of the match in the 70th minute via jersey number 11, Stemiyi Oladotun.
The high point of the event was the presentation of the award and prizes to the footballers.
