Nigerian ex-international, Chikelue Iloenyosi, has been unveiled as the brand ambassador of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
He was unveiled during the conduct of the draws for the second edition of the NUJ/FCT Correspondents Chapel three-day football tournament held between July 11 and 13.
Speaking during the unveiling, Iloenyosi promised massive support for the tournament, thanking the organisers for the honour done to him.
The former Super Eagles defender, who doubles as the Anambra State Football Association chairman, said: “I am happy and honour to be the brand ambassador of the tournament. I am even happier that it is in connection with the development we’re putting in place in my state, Anambra. I am happy to announce that for the first time, the governor of my state, Charles Soludo, put sports in the budget.
It is because of the work we are doing. Not only being an ambassador, I am going to support massively as an individual within my capacity.”
Speaking while unveiling the former Super Eagles defender, FCT Correspondent’s Chapel Chairman, Jide Oyekunle, explained that the aim of the tournament is to strengthen the relationships between the media and participating organisations.
According to him; “today marks another milestone in the history of NUJ FCT Correspondents Chapel with the hosting of the second edition of our football tournament tagged “Football for friendship and peace.”
“The three-day tournament is aimed at strengthening relationships. We are using football to promote and shape the synergy with these organisations, particularly the security agencies that our members always interface with on a daily basis.
“Football does not have language. Football is an integral activity that unites people and has the power to change the world, irrespective of religion, ethnic and political background.
“The game of football makes people forget their differences because it is a unifying factor. It heals wounds and bonds people. It is one of the antidotes for physical fitness, mental health and alertness, which we all need, particularly in the face of the present economic reality and hardship.
“As one of the improvements compared to the maiden edition in 2023, when eight teams participated, It is my pleasure to inform you that 14 teams drawn from the security agencies, government organisations and professional bodies will be participating in this second edition of the tournament,” he explained.
The tourney, which will be held inside the Area 10 football pitch, Old Parade Ground, will feature teams from organisations like; Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Federal High Court (FHC), NNPCL NUJ, Customs, and NDLEA SWAN among others.
