A symbolic novelty football match held to mark the 62nd birthday of the Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator David Umahi, ended in a goalless draw between the Orange and Blue teams at the King David Estate Pitch in Abakaliki.
Organised by the DUN Divine Foundation, the event brought together political leaders, supporters, and youth groups in celebration of Umahi’s enduring legacy of inclusive leadership and developmental governance.
Representing the celebrant, Chief Austin Umahi described the match as a powerful symbol of unity, peace, and loyalty.
“This is more than a game because it reflects our shared commitment to a vision. We built this house of progress together; no one should destroy it,” he stated.
Austin Umahi further called for the reopening of the DUN Divine Foundation to new members, encouraging more people to key into Umahi’s values of service and unity.
The Chairman of the Foundation and former Attorney-General of the state, Barr. Cletus Ofoke, said the match served as a tribute to Umahi’s leadership and also aimed to promote youth engagement through sports and humanitarian acts, including visits to orphanage homes and sundry life touching programs to mark Senator Umahi's 62nd birthday anniversary.
The State Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Prince Richard Idike, commended Umahi as “a university of leadership,” urging leaders to harness sports as a tool for discovering talents, building peaceful communities, and driving economic development.
Other dignitaries, including member representing Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency, Pastor Eze Nwachukwu Eze, Edda local government chairman, Prince ChEkumankama, and former media aide to Umahi, Francis Nwaze, praised Umahi’s track record and called for policies that support talent development and inclusive growth.
Darlington Okereke was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance, while the players and supporters were encouraged to see sports and entertainment as powerful tools for social change and prosperity.
The event climaxed with a visit to the Nigeria Red Cross Motherless Babies’ Home, where gifts were donated, highlighting Umahi’s leadership style rooted in compassion and impact.
