CNS/NOWA Tournaments: Enugu boys and Imo girls emerge champions 

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The 20th edition of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS)/ NOWA Tournaments for U-14 boys and U-17 girls culminated in a thrilling finale at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu last Saturday.

The girls’ competition that stole the spotlight as the highly touted Ebonyi team faced a shocking defeat at the hands of their Imo State rivals, conceding a 4-0 defeat and allowing Imo to clinch the NOWA trophy for the first time.

The host, Enugu boys, entered the arena with determination, not underestimating their opponents.

With the spiritual guidance of their patron, Reverend Father Mbaka, the 10-man Adoration Boys displayed an impressive performance, overwhelming their Abia counterparts with a commanding 5-0 win.

The match kept the spectators at the edge of their seats throughout with its captivating display of skill and passion.

Despite Abia’s valiant efforts, they were unable to withstand the relentless attack from a team that, despite having incomplete players, showcased exceptional prowess on the field.

The victory sparked jubilation among the host team, especially after clinching the male trophy and several individual awards.

Nwodo Nicholas of Enugu was honored as the best male goalkeeper of the tournament, while Wisdom Boniface claimed both the highest goal scorer award and the coveted title of the Most Valuable Player with an impressive tally of six goals.

On the female front, Imo’s Okpara Jacklin was recognized as the best goalkeeper of the tournament, adding to the accolades of the victorious Imo’s side.

In the battle for the third-place spot, Kogi boys triumphed over their Rivers State counterparts with a narrow 1-0 victory, securing their podium finish.

The closing ceremony attracted a plethora of dignitaries from various sectors, including Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, was represented by Navy Secretary Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, while Air Officer Commanding Ground Training Command Air Vice Marshal UK Abdullahi represented the Chief of Air Staff.

Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Barrister Lloyd Ekweremadu, stood in for the Enugu State Governor Peter Mba, among other distinguished guests, adding grandeur to the event’s conclusion.