Amb Ogbonna Bags YSFON South East ‘Pillar of Sports’ For His Transformative Impact On Grassroots Devt

Owerri, Nigeria – In a moment of resounding recognition for his unwavering dedication to grassroots sports development, the Chairman of the Imo State Sports Commission, Hon. Sir Prince (Amb) Eleazar Onyewuchi Ogbonna, FICAN, has been bestowed with the prestigious Pillar of Sports award by the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) South East.

The highly coveted honour was presented to him by YSFON National Vice President (South East), Mr. Sunny Opara-Ekeocha, during the grand finale of the YSFON South East U16 Male Football Tournament at the historic Old Township Stadium, Owerri, on Sunday, March 2, 2025.

The award, signed by YSFON South East Vice President, Mr. Sunny Opara, and Secretary, Mr. John Eli, is a testament to Amb. Ogbonna’s unwavering commitment, selfless service, and continuous investment in grassroots sports development across the region.

"The Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) South East presents this award of honour to Hon. Prince Sir (Amb) Onyewuchi Ogbonna as Pillar of Sports YSFON South East, in recognition of your immense contribution towards the development of grassroots sports in the South East," the citation read.

While presenting the award, Mr. Opara lauded Amb. Ogbonna’s relentless efforts in nurturing young sporting talents, developing grassroots sports structures, and providing opportunities for young athletes to thrive.

"Amb. Ogbonna is a true sports development champion. His passion and commitment to discovering and supporting young talents have positioned him as a leading force in Nigeria’s grassroots sports revolution," Opara said.

With this recognition, Amb. Ogbonna joins an elite list of distinguished Nigerians who have previously been honoured with the YSFON Pillar of Sports Award, including the late business mogul and philanthropist Chief MKO Abiola, the late sports enthusiast and industrialist Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, and former Abia State Governor Senator Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu.

This milestone underscores his profound impact on youth empowerment, sports infrastructure development, and talent scouting, further solidifying his legacy as one of Nigeria’s most influential figures in grassroots sports.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, Amb. Ogbonna expressed deep appreciation to the YSFON South East leadership for recognizing his contributions, emphasizing that the award would serve as a greater motivation to intensify his efforts.

"I am deeply honoured to receive this prestigious recognition from YSFON South East. It is a call to action, and I assure you that this will only inspire me to do more in developing grassroots sports, nurturing young talents, and ensuring that our youths have the best opportunities to excel," he said.

As the driving force behind several grassroots sports initiatives in Imo State and the South East region, Amb. Ogbonna continues to pave the way for the emergence of future sports stars, reinforcing the belief that grassroots development is the foundation of national and international sporting excellence.

With this latest honour, his name is now etched among the pillars of Nigerian sports development, and his vision for grassroots transformation remains a beacon of hope for young athletes across the South East and beyond.