Newstap/SWAN 5-Star Award Will Propel Me To Boost Grassroots Sports — Onyeani

Dr. Chief Robert Daniel Onyeani, a prominent advocate and philanthropist for grassroots football, has declared that receiving the Newstap/SWAN Five Star Award will spur him to intensify his efforts in developing community-level football across the nation.

Chief Onyeani made this statement shortly after being presented with his award last Friday at the Blessing Hall of the esteemed Eko Club in Surulere, Lagos.

An elated Chief Onyeani, widely known as ‘ROCO’, expressed that the accolade serves as recognition for his work with his football clubs, based in Abiriba, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State. He articulated his ambition for both his male and female teams to not only dominate Nigerian football but also become formidable forces on the African continent.

“It’s a great honour to be considered worthy as one of the distinguished Nigerians to receive this award from Newstap Communication and the entire Nigerian sports writing community,” Chief Onyeani remarked.

He continued, “This signifies that my contributions to grassroots sports development in this country are being observed, even without my direct knowledge. I am committed to redoubling my efforts to surpass my current achievements in helping young people develop their talents.”

Regarding his plans for his two teams, he explained that he has already implemented crucial measures to ensure their return to winning ways, expressing optimism that positive results will soon materialise.

“It’s true that my teams haven’t been performing optimally in the league, but I can assure you that I have taken decisive steps to reposition them,” he confidently stated.

“You’ll recall we defeated two-time CAF champions, Enyimba FC of Aba, last year during the Abia State FA Cup. We will continue to improve until the desired results emerge, as my ambition is to conquer not just Nigerian football but also that of the continent.”

The Newstap/Five Star Award was established to acknowledge and honour individuals and organisations who have dedicated their time and resources to advancing the country’s sports.

Among those who received awards alongside Chief Onyeani were Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State; Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Limited; Comrade Philip Shaibu, DG/CEO of the National Institute For Sports; and Hon. Omolei Yakubu Imadu, Proprietor of Yacateco Boxing Promotions and Vice President of the Nigeria Boxing Federation. Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, President General of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, received a special recognition award.