By Sarah Mudwa, Jalingo
Chief Ezekiel Irimiya Afukonyo, a philanthropist, seasoned grassroots politician, diplomat, and security expert, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting young people, particularly in Taraba State.
He expressed this during a visit to the female football team he established, Afukonyo Babes Academy, currently camping at the Jolly Nyame Stadium in Jalingo in preparation for the upcoming northern competition scheduled to take place in Jos, Plateau State.
Mr. Emmanuel, the Technical Coach of the Academy
Chief Afukonyo was a gubernatorial aspirant for Taraba State in 2007 under the platform of the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) and again in 2019 under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He holds several traditional titles, including Katun of Wukari, Katukan Ibi, Turakin Chinkai, Sallaman Jubu, Dan Masani of Rafin Kada, and Oma of Nnewi in Anambra State.
Chief Afukonyo encourages and empowers young people from all backgrounds, enabling them to grow, succeed, and become valuable members of society.
He has provided necessary items for their training, which improved their overall performance on the field.
High Chief Ezekiel Irimiya Afukonyo inspires and motivates the young female team, and his support has been crucial in nurturing talents in Taraba State, empowering them to pursue their dreams in sports.
His philanthropic efforts will undoubtedly provide opportunities for talented young women to follow their passion for football and achieve success at higher levels.
He reiterated his dedication to sports and his willingness to support the team in securing a place in the national team as they represent the state in the upcoming northern competition.
He expressed optimism that the female footballers would succeed in the event, stating that their performance would encourage him to further support the team.
Additionally, Chief Afukonyo has initiated fundraising and sponsorships for the Academy, which he views as part of his social responsibility.
He called on the government and individuals to support upcoming young talents, both male and female, to help them reach their goals and promote sports within the state.
Chief Ezekiel Irimiya Afukonyo further announced that plans are underway to build a private Stadium for the Academy at a suitable location that would be closer to him, to enable him to closely monitor their activities.
It was gathered that the proposed private Stadium may be located at Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, the hometown of Chief Afukonyo.
Regarding the abandoned Taraba Queens Football Club, Chief Afukonyo revealed that it was funded by the office of the former First Lady of Taraba State, Hajiya Hauwa Danbaba.
He voiced concern over the club’s collapse after Hauwa’s tenure due to a lack of funding and urged individuals and corporate organizations to support and revive the club, emphasizing that the government cannot do it alone.
He noted that reviving the Taraba Queens would not only benefit the players but would also contribute to the growth of women’s football in the Northeast region.
As a dedicated supporter of the Taraba Queens football club, Chief Afukonyo provides financial support and encouragement to both the management and the players.
The Katun of Wukari praised Governor Agbu Kefas for his efforts in restoring security and providing free education in the state.
He stated that this policy has significantly reduced the number of out-of-school children on the streets, highlighting that such a milestone can only be achieved by someone with a big heart.
