Bishop Okonkwo warns youths against violence as 2022 MOFC tourney ends

General overseer of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Bishop Mike Okonkwo, has urged Nigerian youths to shun vices that would affect the growth of the nation and pursue profitable careers.

Speaking at the Yaba College of Technology football field, venue of the final of the 2022 Mike Okonkwo Football Championship, the cleric, whose birthday fell on the day, Saturday, advised youths to be more involved in skills they have passion for.

“The Mike Okonkwo Football Championship started as a process to get Nigerian youths involved in sports. Although the COVID-19 issues did not allow the championship hold for some time, we thank God this year’s is a big success as more teams turned out for the event.

“The economy of the country is not really good at this point, but I urge more youths to continue to contribute positively to the development of the nation. The Church would continue funding the event to keep youths off the streets and in the nearest future, a football club will be unveiled as a way of continuing to give youths opportunity through football.”

Chairman, organising committee of the championship, Malachi Ndubuzor, said the success of this year’s event has proved that football can be used to bring positive social changes in the society.

At the final game, G Innovation defeated AUX 4-2 by penalty shoot out to become champions of the men’s category after both teams had ended the game 2-2.

In the women category, Young Talents 99 FC also defeated Lakeside FC via a penalty shoot out after playing 2-2 in the final game.