Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Elvert Ayambem has commended Governor Bassey Otu over the political will demonstrated by his administration to resuscitate the moribund sporting sector in the state.
Ayambem stated this in Calabar while unveiling the brand new trophy for this year’s Governor Cup soccer competition christened Sweet Cup 2023.
He noted that; “The gesture will provide an ample platform to our talented youths to showcase their soccer talents with a view of attracting global limelight”
According to Ayambem; “The potential of sports as diplomatic tools, uniting factor and a veritable source of foreign exchange earning has never been in doubt”
“It is therefore heart-warming that our Governor has demonstrated serious commitment towards reviving our sports sector which has been in a deplorable state in recent times”
Speaking, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Agnes Atsu said “The state government will continue to accord priority attention to the sports sector as a catalyst for youth empowerment and positive engagement”
In her words” Football has continually stood out as a potent uniting force and a veritable source for foreign income which must be explored to the fullest given our vast potential”
In his remarks, the Chairman of Cross River Football Association Apostle Essien Ayi revealed that the tournament has been rebranded as” Sweet Prince Cup” as a testament to the unwavering passion of Governor Bassey Otu towards reviving soccer in the state.
A total of 24 teams comprising 18 clubs from each of the 18 Local Government areas and six privately owned teams spread in four centers namely Calabar, Ugep, Ikom, and Yala are competing in the competition which flagged off over the weekend.
The grand finale is slated for the U J Esuene Stadium in Calabar on December 14 as a major highlight of Carnival Calabar.