The Amanyanabo and Natural Ruler of Bonny Kingdom has hailed the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) for birthing his vision of a viable football competition to unveil talents and empower youths in his domain.

His Majesty, King Dr Edward Asimini William Dappa Pepple III, CON, DSSRS, JP, Perekule XI gave this commendation on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at the kick off of the Amanyanabo Football Tournament in Bonny, Rivers State.

This is just as defending champions, Godbless United FC trounced Genuine FC 1-0 to sustain their grip on the trophy.

Godbless United’s stinger was scored at the 81st minute when one of its players convereted a strategic pass into a killer shot that separated the two sides.    

The Bonny Monarch, who was represented by a former Chairman of the Bonny Chiefs Council, Se-Alabo Reginald Abbey-Hart, said though the tournament was an inspiration of his, NLNG brought it to life in conjunction with Grafton Entertainment.

On his part, the Manager, Community Relations and Sustainable Development, Charles Epelle said the tournament is a demonstration of visionary leadership, acumen and commitment of King Pepple III, who he described as “a star footballer”.

“As a star footballer himself, the King did not only labour to bring this tournament to life, he has ensured that the flag keeps flying.”

“There is no doubt that apart from the joy of exercise and getting more fit and healthy, this game is an opportunity for people to band together and build more affinity, unity and camaraderie.”   

He charged their participating teams and other stakeholders to take cognizance of “the objective of this tournament and that is to engage our youths and to develop their mental acumen and talent in football while at the same time create a platform for team bonding and pleasure for football lovers in Bonny and beyond”.   

The kick off ceremony, which had in attendance the Vice Chairman of Bonny LGA, Omoni Longjohn, a former member of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Aye Pepple, former coach of the Super Eagles, Fanny Amun, ex-footballers, and scouts, among others.

There were also live performances by Abara International Dance Troupe, and the cheer leaders, Port Harcourt Significant Girls.

The tournament continues on Sunday, December 3, 2023 with Adventurers FC tackling Unique FC by 1pm and Beautiful Strikers and Bright Stars FC going head to head by 3pm at the same venue, Government School field, Bonny.