By Juliana Nwachukwu
The Chairman of Oyi Zone of the Anambra State Market Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), Mr. Evaristus Ejezie, has said the zone is targeting victory in the 2026 Anambra Traders Sports competition.
Ejezie spoke on Oct. 2 at the kick off match between Onye Aghana Nwanne Ya Butchers Association, Umunya, and Plastic Market, Ogbunike, at Central School Field, Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area. The Butchers Association won 3-1.
Ejezie said he was determined to replicate his success in the maiden edition of the competition in 2023, when he led Atani Road traders in Ogbaru to victory.
He said the competition would help traders maintain physical fitness, promote unity and ease the pressures associated with business activities.
He also commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Commissioner for Commerce, Mr Nonso Ebonwu, and ASMATA President-General, Chief Humphrey Anuna, for supporting traders’ participation in sports.
Ejezie explained that the competition would progress from the zonal stage, with the winner emerging from Oyi Zone to represent the zone at the central stage.
The Chairman of Plastic Market, Ogbunike, Chief Christian Adibe, and his counterpart at Onye Aghana Nwanne Ya Butchers Association, Hon. Chinedu Uba, said their teams demonstrated talent and determination, while commending the state government for sustaining the competition.
They, however, identified inadequate funding, first aid boxes, jerseys and other sporting equipment as challenges affecting the competition.
The Woman Leader of Plastic Market, Mrs Ngene Njideka, said the match was competitive and expressed satisfaction that no injury was recorded.
Other stakeholders, Mrs Akonobi Calista and Mrs Uzoamaka Nwachukwu, said the competition provided opportunities for traders to relax, ease tension and strengthen relationships.
The event also featured pre match screening by ASMATA officials, including blood pressure checks and verification of players’ passports before the match.
Juliana Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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