By John Asiegbu
The Imo State Para-powerlifting Association, has conferred an award of excellence on it’s vice chairman, Amb. Stanley Ogbonna Ferdinand, for his benevolence and patronage of the association, describing him as a beacon of hope for the less privileged.
Presenting the award in Owerri on Friday, 9th, August, 2024, chairman of the association, Amb Jude Agbugba in conjunction with the Imo State Director of Sports, Lady Pat Ezeji, described Ogbonna as an indefatigable source of financial succour to the association.
Receiving the award, Ogbonna said that he had bagged over 70 merit awards from different groups and organizations but pointed out that the one presented to him by the association, would remain evergreen in his memory.
Earlier in her address, the Head coach of the association, Edith Ukaegbu, commended Ogbonna for his unwavering commitment towards the welfare of members of the association hence, his recognition.
In the same vein, she lauded the association’s chairman, Amb. Jude Agbugba and Hon. Nzerem Chidiebere Obinwanne, for their inestimable financial supports to the association, praying God to replenish their pockets abundantly.
She, however, solicited the provision or renovation of the association’s qauters to provide accommodation for the athletes particularly those who attend training sessions from far places.
Responding to the association’s request, the Imo State Director of Sports , Lady Pat Ezeji, encouraged the athletes to do more, describing them as people naturally endowned with wisdom, intelligence and special abilities, promising to draw the attension of the state government to their plight.
In his remark, the chairman who apparently doubles as chief patron of the association, Amb. Jude Agbugba, extolled the association for producing a world record holder in para-powerlifting completion, saying that they are more than able.
He therefore, promised to raise a five-man committee which, according to him, would address and attend to the issues raised by the association to enhance their performance.
Present at the event were, the assistant coach of the association, Bethel Nwede (B.B), it’s secretary, Azubuike Maureen, World Para-powerlifting Gold Medalist, Orji Josephine Precious (PLY), National Technical Officer, Para-powerlifting Game, Amb. Iyke Ibe, Director Technical, Imo State Sports Commission, Kuba Cassy and others.
