By Blessing Igidi
Mary-Maudaline Uzoamaka Nwifuru, has emphasized the importance of empowering young girls through sports, particularly football, as a platform for showcasing their talents. She made this known during the opening match of the Female Football Talent Hunt Tournament held at Camp David Field, Centenary City, Abakaliki, on Wednesday.

Represented by Architect Godwin Nwaja, the First Lady encouraged the participants to give their best in the tournament, noting that standout players would have the opportunity to feature in the newly established state female football team.
“The essence of this tournament is to empower the girl child by giving her the platform to showcase her talent. I urge you all to play with determination and dedication, as this could be your pathway to greater opportunities in football,” she stated.
The event also saw representation from the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Hon. Richard Ugo Idike, who was represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Comrade Obiesie Ogbonna. In his remarks, he commended the initiative, noting its potential to inspire young female athletes in the state.
Hon. Nwankwo Pius Nwankwo, Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, expressed gratitude to Governor Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru and the First Lady for their visionary support of grassroots sports development. He highlighted that the tournament serves as a preparatory phase for the inauguration of a state female football club, scheduled to begin operations in December 2024.
“I encourage the girls to seize this golden opportunity. With hard work and commitment, some of you could soon become national football stars,” Hon. Nwankwo urged.
The highlight of the day was the electrifying opening match between Abakaliki Local Government Area (LGA) and Ezza North LGA. Miss Favour Chiamaka Nwankwo, the captain of Ezza North LGA, scored the opening goal, followed by another brilliant finish from Minka Praise. The match ended with a 2-0 victory for Ezza North LGA.
The Female Football Talent Hunt Tournament is a milestone initiative aimed at fostering talent and promoting gender equality in sports within Ebonyi State. The program has been widely applauded as a step toward building a strong foundation for female football in the state.