The Anambra state government says plans are underway to float a state-owned football club.
The Chairman , Anambra Sports Development Commission, Patrick Onyedum announced the plans to journalists during the final match of the 2023 Anambra FA Cup Competition at Neros Stadium, Nanka.
According to Mr Onyedum, having a football team to represent Anambra at the Nigeria National Football League and other competitions is part of the manifesto of Governor Chukwuma Soludo-led administration.
It’s been about 32 years since Rangers International Football Club became Enugu state-owned, following the creation of the state in 1991.
Sports lovers and stakeholders in Anambra have been looking forward to the state floating its own football team.
While commending Chief Paul Emenike for encouraging grassroots football in Anambra state, the sports development chairman said football was best managed by private individuals and supported by government.
Ozalla Football Academy emerged champions of the 2023 NEROS Anambra FA Cup Competition after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Edel FC (formerly Nnewi Utd).
In the women’s category, also decided at the same venue, Nanka, Awka Angels defeated defending champions , Maureen Madu Kiddies Football Club by a loan goal to lift the trophy, having placed come second runners-up in 2022.
Apart from the N2 million prize money and trophy, Ozalla FC will be representing Anambra State at the Federation Cup alongside Edel FC.
Reporting by Uche Ndeke; Editing by Daniel Adejo and Tony Okerafor