The Enugu State Handball Association has been officially inaugurated by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Barrister Llyod Ekweremadu Jnr, represented by the Ministry’s Director of Coaches, Ephraim Ochomma
The event, held at the state secretariat, ushered in a new nine-member executive committee led by Emmanuel Onyebuchi Asogwa as chairman.
Full list of inaugurated members
1. Asogwa Emmanuel Onyebuchi – Chairman
2. Ugwu Chekwube – Vice Chairman
3. Chigbo Christian – Member
4. Eze Ifunanya – Member
5. Aleke Amobi – Member
6. Nwosu Chibuuzo Juliana – Member
7. Olie Otuechelu – Public Relations Officer
8. Anthony Umeh Ezinwa – Member
9. Idoko Emeka – Coach/Secretary
In his acceptance speech, Asogwa pledged to build on years of grassroots efforts and reposition handball in the state.
“I must thank you for the understanding shown us over time. On behalf of my team, we accept this responsibility for the next 3–4 years. It’s a family affair, we started about five to six years ago,” he said.
“We have organised secondary school competitions, 4X4 handball for South East without federal support. Now that we are in the corridor of power, Enugu will explode. I urge all our members to sit up.”
Chief Asogwa also confirmed that in the coming days he will be confirmed as the Zonal representative of the South East zone and a member of the Handball Federation of Nigeria.
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The chairman also outlined development plans targeting age-grade competitions.
“We want to start all over again, building under-12, under-15, and under-17 categories. The era of scouting for players for tournaments is over.Enugu will develop its own talents and even become a centre for brother states to come and buy players ,” Asogwa added.
He revealed that South East coaches had agreed to an internal pact ensuring only homegrown players from the region would feature in competitions, with sanctions awaiting defaulters.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner, Coach Ephraim described Asogwa as “passionate about handball” and urged the new board to keep pushing.
“The chairman is passionate about handball. I told the Commissioner about him and he said we should give him our support. This is a team to beat, and I want to urge you to work harder to produce a team that will stand the test of time,” he said.
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The Ministry also commended the sacrifices made by the board members.
“I congratulate you for your sacrifice. You have committed your funds and time, and God will reward you. With Enugu set to host the National Sports Festival, we want to make an impact,” Ephraim added.
