It was a day of excitement and promise in Umuakuru Emekuku, Owerri North LGA, as the Prof. M.A. Nze/Oluchi Ekwueme Soccer Academy was officially unveiled at the Community Secondary School pitch along Nkwo Emeke Road.
The event drew widespread attention and enthusiasm, with football fans and grassroots supporters turning out in large numbers to witness the introduction of a fresh generation of budding football talent. For the community and the local football scene, it marked a significant milestone.
The unveiling ceremony was graced by prominent personalities from the sporting world. Representing the Imo State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, was Greg Okey Nwadike. Also present were members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo Chapter, former footballers, and numerous well-wishers who gathered to support the academy’s vision.
One of the standout moments of the day was a thrilling friendly match between the academy’s senior team and Hawks FC. The two sides delivered an entertaining encounter, showcasing flair, determination, and raw talent. The match ended in a lively 1-1 draw, whetting the appetite of fans for more to come.
Stakeholders commended the initiative, praising the academy’s founders for investing in youth development and pledging their continued support toward nurturing talent in the region.
Speaking with sports journalists at the event, Oluchi Ekwueme, co-founder of the academy and a former professional footballer, shared her excitement about the launch. A proud member of a distinguished football family that includes Ifeanyi, Lucky, and Alex Ekwueme, she spoke passionately about the academy’s mission.
“I’m truly excited about today’s successful unveiling. We’ve been laying the groundwork for this for a long time, and our goal is to develop and showcase these young talents to the world. Football is in our blood, and this academy is a way of continuing that legacy. Together with Prof. Nze, we are fully committed to nurturing the stars of tomorrow.
“We shall do all within our might to ensure that we have the best talent at our academy and nurturing them to stardom won’t be any problem because it is what we know how to do best. Professor Nze is from here and his partnership with me will make the academy work.”
One of the highlights of the unveiling ceremony was the presentation of some balls and cones to Nze/Ekwueme Soccer Academy by Anayo Udogu aka Dodomayana, and Senegal Eto’o.
Both friends said it was their way of identifying with Oluchi Ekwueme and her Academy partner, Professor M A Nze and the promised to continue to offer support to the fledging academy any time they are called upon.
With its official debut now complete, the Nze/Ekwueme Soccer Academy embarks on its journey—poised to become a cornerstone for grassroots football, talent development, and the emergence of the next generation of Nigerian football stars.
