By Sunny David
Onitsha Country Club has officially commissioned its newly renovated state of the Squash Hall, a significant addition to its array of sporting facilities.
The event which attracted prominent individuals including men of the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Police Force also featured award presentation and Timjan Health Drink international promotional tournament closing ceremony.
Renovation of the historic Squash Hall is part of the club’s effort to strengthen the age long relationship with the Nigerian Army which dates back to 1974 when the vicinity served as a playground for the Nigerian Army.
In his opening remark, the Royal Father of the day, the Igwe Orazulunye Obi 11 of Ichida, Igwe Charles Ezeudeogu (KSS) commended the club for giving a face lift to the oldest standing building in the arena and for maintaining a good relationship with the Nigerian army till this day.
Igwe Ezeudeogu was represented by the Chairman, Ichida Great Forum, Onitsha branch, Mr. Chika Ezenwarie.
The Squash Hall was named after HRM Igwe Charles Ezeudeogu for his active involvement, contributions and impact to the club.
Addressing members of the club, the special guest of honour Lieutenant Colonel Ayoba Nandang said the Squash game remains a very important event cherished by the Nigerian Army.
Lt. Col. Nandang who is the Commanding Officer 14th Field Engineer Regiment, Nigerian Army Onitsha said the vicinity once served as the Nigerian Army Barrack Onitsha, appreciated the club for remembering their roots.
In his address the President of Onitsha Country Club, Chief Kingsley Anietonwa expressed satisfaction in the turn out of the event and to the Nigerian Army for honouring their invitation, which is a testament their relationship is still intact.
He said that the Onitsha Country Club aims to encourage a broader participation in sports, adding that plans are in place to establish a tennis academy where children from the community will have access to sporting activities.
Chief Anietonwa appreciated the Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma soludo for the massive road construction in the area, stressting that the poor state of the road posed a challenge to the club’s activities.
The club seized the medium to present and launch the trophy won at the 2022, 2023 and 2024 Fada Pita Tennis League, competed amongst all the Sports Clubs in the State.
It also presented trophies to members of the club who emerged champions in their just concluded internal tournament.
The champions are Chief Emeka Emewulu, Sir Martin Ezeamalu, Mr. Innocent Chukwukelu and Mr. Ugochukwu Onyia.
