In a move to bolster sports development in Imo State, Governor Hope Uzodinma has handed over three brand-new buses to the Heartland Football Clubs of Owerri.
The presentation, which took place on Saturday morning at the Imo Government House, saw Heartland FC receiving a Toyota Coaster Bus and a Sprinter Bus, while Heartland Queens FC received a Coaster Bus.
Speaking at the event, Governor Uzodinma reaffirmed his commitment to promoting sports in the state, particularly football, while emphasizing the welfare of the teams.
“This gesture is a fulfillment of my promise to support your efforts and ensure you remain motivated to achieve even greater success,” the governor said. “Our goal is for you to bring home every cup.”
He praised the recent performances of both teams under their respective coaches and urged everyone to support their efforts, noting that the coaches have been given full autonomy to operate independently.
The keys to the buses were officially handed over by the governor to Coach Emmanuel Amuneke, MFR, the Technical Manager of Heartland FC, and Mr. Obi Ogbala, the Technical Adviser of Heartland Queens FC, in the presence of other team officials.
Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, expressed gratitude to the governor, assuring that the ministry would ensure proper maintenance and effective use of the buses. He was accompanied by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Ngozi Duru.
With this gesture, Governor Uzodinma has further solidified his support for the state’s football teams, aiming to inspire them to greater heights in their respective leagues.