The Nigerian Navy (NN) has inaugurated a multipurpose sports arena in Eziowelle, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, as part of efforts to strengthen civil-military relations and curb youth restiveness.
Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, represented by Chief of Communications and Information Technology, Rear Admiral Semiu Adepegba, said the facility, built under the Special Intervention Quick Impact Project and facilitated by Rear Admiral Emmanuel Anakwe, would provide youths with a social and sporting outlet and support community development. The project included a sports arena, restrooms and a changing-room building.
Abbas urged beneficiaries to protect and maintain the facility to ensure its sustainability.
Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, represented by Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Patrick Aghamba, commended the Navy, describing the project as a demonstration of public-private-community partnership. He urged citizens at home and abroad to support government development efforts.
Anakwe said the arena was built in memory of his father, a former captain of Nigeria’s national football team, the Red Devils, from 1956 to 1958, describing it as a way of preserving his father’s values of discipline, teamwork and service. He expressed hope the facility would help young people discover their talents and pursue their dreams.