The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Peter Odey, and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Emmanuel Ironbar, are expected to attend the grand finale of the maiden Governor Otu’s Bakassi Grassroots Cup scheduled for Sunday, November 30, at the Ekpri Ikang Field in Bakassi Local Government Area NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The football tournament, which began on November 16, has featured teams drawn from all wards and zones in Bakassi. It is organised by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Mr. Andrea Ekeng, under the New Wave Bakassi Front.
According to the organizers, the championship was designed to engage young people, promote peaceful coexistence and strengthen community participation in sports at the grassroots level.
Speaking on Thursday, Ekeng said the anticipated presence of the Deputy Governor and Chief of Staff underscores the administration’s commitment to youth-focused social programmes.
“We are encouraged by the level of support the tournament has received and the excitement it has generated across Bakassi. The attendance of top government officials reinforces the importance the state government places on youth development,” he said.
Attendance at the matches has been impressive, with community leaders, youth groups and football fans turning out in large numbers for the semifinals, which continue today.
Local observers say the competition has helped to foster unity among young people and revive interest in community-based sporting activities.
With preparations underway for Sunday’s final match, expectations are high that the closing ceremony will consolidate the momentum the tournament has generated in the last two weeks.
