The Udoka Nwaeweche Foundation has taken a significant step towards promoting unity and showcasing grassroots talent with the inauguration of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the Ika Nation Football Tournament 2025. This tournament aims to create opportunities for young people across Ika land, with all 26 wards set to be represented.

Speaking on behalf of the Convener and Chairman, The Udoka Nwaeweche Foundation, Hon Udoka Kingsley Nwaeweche, Mr Ikewe Michael Ifeanyi said that the LOC inauguration marks a significant milestone not only in the journey of the Foundation but also,in the collective aspirations of the Ika people.

He noted, “This is not merely the commencement of a football tournament but the birth of a transformative initiative designed to unite,inspire and elevate our communities through the power of sports.

“The tournament has been conceived as a strategic platform which seeks to identify and showcase the abundant, yet often overlooked talents that reside within our wards and communities. Beyond the game itself, this initiative aims to foster discipline, promote teamwork and instill a renewed sense of hope and purpose in the hearts of our Youths.

He added, “Through this tournament, we envision a future where the young people of Ika Land are not only positively engaged but also, inspired to pursue excellence, both on and off the football pitch.

“The Local Organizing Committee will serve as the operational backbone of the tournament. Members of the Committee were carefully selected based on their commitments, credibility and capacities to deliver. I’m confident that with the unity of purpose, transparency in process and dedication to service, we shall deliver an event that will be remembered for generations.”

He therefore, urged the LOC members to approach the responsibility given to them with utmost diligence, fairness and a spirit of collaboration. He further advised that the Committee members should uphold the values and strength that define the Ika Nation.

On behalf of the Foundation,he extended his sincere appreciation to members of the Committee’s willingness to serve in their various capacities

“Your contributions will not only ensure the success of this tournament but, will also leave a lasting imprint on the developmental trajectory of our youths and the unity of our people. Together, let us build something enduring and let us unite Ika Nation through sports,” he concluded.

The Chairman and members of the Local Organizing Committee of the Ika Nation Football Tournament 2025 include: Coach Lucky Sunday Nkeki, Chairman, Pastor Dennis Aghagbon, Secretary, Hon Ikechukwu Jeluoawka, Technical Consultant, Mr Emeka Monye and Harry Awosu, Media and Publicity, Mr Sunny Osunde, Chief Technical Officer, Mr M.C.Agbamu, Director of Health, Mrs Ekosi J.Nkechi, Welfare Officer, Chief Innocent Odoemene, Chief Officiating Personnel and Comrade Onuwa Omebere, Chief Security Officer.

Responding on behalf of the LOC members, the Chairman, Coach Lucky Sunday Nkeki appreciated Hon Udoka Kingsley Nwaeweche and the Foundation for finding them worthy to serve in the tournament. He promised that his Committee will live up to expectations by delivering a successful tournament.

The tournament which has been scheduled to kickoff on Saturday, November 22nd, 2025 is being sponsored by an Abuja based lawyer, philanthropist and business man and an illustrious son of Owere Olubor Community, Hon Udoka Kingsley Nwaeweche. The various communities in Ika North East and Ika South are billed to participate at the tournament. The winners will go home with a cash prize of One Million Naira(#1,000,000), second place winners will get Five Hundred Thousand Naira(#500,000) while the third place winners, will go home with a prize of Two Hundred And Fifty Thousand Naira(#250,000). Consolation prizes and trophies will also be given out during the tournament.