Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council, Barr George Ariolu, on Monday received two Obio/Akpor sons, Chigonum Ihunda and Darlington Ovunda, the Vice Captain and Goal Keeper of the Rivers United side that won the 2021/2022 NPFL Trophy at the Council Headquarters, Rumuodomaya.
Ariolu in a brief meeting at the Exco Chambers in the Council Secretariat, thanked both players for making a mark for themselves and proudly flying the flag of Obio/Akpor high, encouraging them to continue to contribute positively to the narrative changing process of his administration.
The Chairman commended the duo and entire Rivers United team for their commitment, discipline and resilience towards their emergence as champions of the Nigerian Professional Football League in the just concluded 2021/2022 season.
He also called for improved synergy between the players and the Council to further encourage the development of sports and build on the achievements of his administration in human capacity development.
Ariolu reacting to the victory, acknowledged the contributions of the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, particularly his personal efforts in reorganizing the Rivers United team back in 2015 which has led to their emergence as Champions of the Nation.
According to the Council Chairman who reiterated his administration’s focus and vision to the people, he will continue to identify with the successes of the people of Obio/Akpor in all spheres. He added that the victory and success that the duo has brought to the LGA is worthy of commendation.
While congratulating the players on their success, he advised youths in the LGA to emulate the good examples of the Vice Captain and Goal Keeper, especially in their level of discipline and focus in achieving success.
He further admonished youths to follow in the direction of the players, condemning the high level of drug abuse and other crime related cases amongst youths.
The Council Chairman while complimenting the contributions of Governor Wike to the team, splashed the sum of #500,000.00 on each of the players as part of encouragement to the Rivers United Vice Captain and Goal Keeper.
On their part, Chigonum Ihunda and Darlington Ovunda who pledged to continue making the LGA proud described the Chairman as a winner following the team’s recent victory.
The Vice Captain also assured the Chairman and members of his cabinet of more glory to his administration, adding that they will not fail in flying the flag of the Local Government higher to the Continental and World level.
