Former Super Eagles defender Chikelue Iloenyosi has given his endorsement to the football tournament organized by the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council.
Iloenyosi, now the Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association and a former participant in Nigeria's 1999 FIFA U20 World Cup team, voiced his support during a courtesy visit from the Chapel's executives and members, led by Chairman Jide Oyekunle, in Abuja on Friday.
"I hold journalists in high regard and am thrilled to be named the ambassador for this tournament," Iloenyosi stated. "The event promises to enhance relationships among participating organizations, and I wholeheartedly endorse it."
Oyekunle revealed that the tournament is scheduled for July 11-13, 2024, with the draw taking place on June 18, during which Iloenyosi will be officially unveiled as the tournament's ambassador.
"We are here to express our sincere gratitude to you for accepting our request to be the ambassador and face of our tournament," Oyekunle said. "Your contributions to sports development both nationally and internationally are well-recognized and appreciated."
Oyekunle enlisted the participating organizations inclusive are, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Federal High Court (FHC), Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Orientation Agency (NOA), Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and the Correspondents Chapel football team, among others.
Oyekunle added, "The three-day tournament at Area 10 football field by Old Parade Ground aims to unite journalists, security agencies, and government organizations, fostering camaraderie through football. The sport transcends differences, acting as a unifying force that heals wounds and brings people together."
Highlighting Iloenyosi's role as a media-friendly football legend and a role model for the younger generation, Oyekunle commended his exceptional contributions to sports development and humanitarian efforts.
Oyekunle said, the formal unveiling of Iloenyosi as ambassador will take place on June 18 at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja during the Pre-Tournament Press Conference and draw.
The visit concluded with the presentation of a large thank-you card to Iloenyosi. The NUJ FCT Correspondents Chapel football tournament is now in its second edition.
