Ugochukwu Iwuchukwu
The Rivers State Government has inaugurated a nine-man committee for the second edition of Governor Nyesom Wike football tournament.
The Commissioner of Sports Rivers State Boma Iyaye inaugurated the committee in his office in Port Harcourt.
Boma Iyaye during the event said the state government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the state-owned team Rivers United get the needed preparation ahead of the team’s CAF confederations cup campaign.
He said the tournament will be used to assess the strength of Rivers United as the team prepares for life on the continent.
The Rivers State Commissioner for sports Boma Iyaye said the tournament is a collaboration with the state government and the private sector.
The Commissioner also tasked the committee to observe strict covid-19 protocols during the tournament.
Meanwhile the chairman of the committee, Bashir Badawy commended the state government for the initiative.
He said that the committee will do its best to organize a successful tournament.
Other members of the committee include Benjamin Akobo, Olalekan Ige, Dennis Dima, Chuks Ezeji, Bright Ogude, Chris Udogu, and Sepribo Nimifaa, who is to serve as the secretary.
The tournament which is billed to run from 1st-10th of November 2020 at the Sharks Stadium will have at least 16 teams from the Nigeria professional football league and the Nigeria National League.
The participating teams are Lobi Stars, Abia Warriors, Plateau United, Kwara United, Bendel Insurance and Rivers United.
Others are Gombe United, Remo Stars, Niger Tornadoes, Nasarawa United Mfm Fc and Cynosure FC.
Sunshine Stars of Akure won the first edition of the pre-season tournament.
