Senator Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo representing Nasarawa South Senatorial District at the National Assembly has reacted on the establishment of football academy in Obi, commending the initiator Engineer Elisha Yohana Embuga, Hasken Obi, for the idea of establishing a Football Academy in Obi.
The Senator was speaking at the finals of the maiden edition of Hasken Obi football competition played between Abagu United and Obi United where Abagu United defeated Obi two goals to one to emerge champions.
The maiden edition of the football competition tagged “Hasken Obi Peace and Unity football tournament” was the cynasure of all eyes as young lads at the grassroots displayed their artistry under frenzy atmosphere watched by high profile dignitaries and soccer enthusiasts.
Characterized with frills and thrills,confidence and resilience,Abuga United took the lead before the mark of an hour before Obi United equalized in the second half to raised the tempo high and few minutes to the end of the regulation time, Abagu United stun their opponent with a late goal to be crowned champions.
Senator Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo expressed excitement at the quality of soccer displayed given the high number of talented players at the grassroots and commended the initiator, Engineer Elisha Yohana Embuga, for establishing a Football Academy with a view to taping and maximizing potentials embedded in Nasarawa State .
I never expected to see within our community the standard at which both teams played,I’m sure if you find yourself in Arsenal,Chelsea or Man-U,you could do better.With the Academy established,im sure football scouts will be coming to look for you.
Also speaking, the immediate past Senator, Senator Suleiman Asonya Adokwe who commended Engineer Elisha Yohana Embuga for actively engaging the youth and equally spoke highly of the intention of the sponsor to establish a football Academy in Obi town, assuring of him of his willingness to contribute to the laudable project.
As a matter of fact I have seen great talents here and with good training,the sky will be their limit.If this Academy must be organized and come to reality,myself and my brother Senator Mohd Ogishi Onawu must be the ones to make it a reality.
The Osuko of Obi, Alhaji Dan-Giwa Ogiri Orume explained that the tournament is best in recent times and noted that Obi community remains grateful for the investment by the Hasken Obi; assuring of maximum support to enable him actualise the vision of the Football Academy just as he praised the commitment of the organizers in ensuring smooth tournament.
For this initiative,You have succeeded in bringing all the tribes and ethnic groups in the locality together regardless of political lineage, regardless of religious interest,they have all gathered here,played so many matches and without any hitches; this is laudable.
Sponsor of the tournament,Engineer Elisha Yohana Embuga revealed that the tournament was born out of his vision to establish a football Academy in Obi where he sought the collaboration of stakeholders to come up with football Academy to enable young men and women from the locality achieve their full potentials.
The Academy will not only serve the purpose of football but will also prioritize the personal development of our Youths Education, health and leadership in ensuring that every young person who passes through our programme is equipped with life skills that goes beyond the pitch.
Admitting the opportunity that abound in the sports sub-sector, Engineer Yohana Embuga encouraged Youths to remain committed towards changing their world positively by maximizing every opportunity to improve themselves especially in the round leather game.