NNL: Newly-acquired Ebonyi team to tackle Madiba FC

Idike expressed optimism that the state team, with its fresh zeal, crop of players and the coaching crew would clinch the victory in the match, revealing that the team has been in camp preparing for the new season.

The Commissioner, who expressed satisfaction with the level of preparations, said all modalities had been put in place to ensure a smooth and successful game, disclosing that Governor Nwifuru will join other enthusiastic Ebonyians to watch the match at the stadium and cheer the players to victory.

Meanwhile, some residents of the state have appealed to the state government to prevail on the NNL to throw the stadium gate open to enable the enthusiastic populace to watch the match free of cost.

The residents, including John Nwiboko and Celina Nguji, who spoke to newsmen at the unveiling of the club, expressed joy over the new state football team, which they emphasised was long overdue.

They applauded Governor Nwifuru for taking the bold step towards actualising the dreams of sports loving citizens of the state, and urged the government to give the club all needed support to ensure it is promoted in next season.

Nwiboko said: “For us, this development is a dream come true after over 15 years the state has not participated in nor witnessed any professional football leagues.

“Governor Nwifuru has made us proud by this gesture, and we urge him never to relent until the state fully returns back to its glorious days in sports activities.

“We are aware that NNL will request for gate fee, but we are appealing to our governor to graciously avail sports lovers in the state the opportunity of watching the match free in the spirit of massive support for the new team.”