Rivers mobilises support for U-23 Olympic team

The Rivers State government has assured that the nation’s U-23 team would not black support when they take on their Congolese counterpart this weekend in Port Harcourt.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Boma Iyaye, said at the weekend that efforts had been put in place to ensure a memorable outing for the U-23 team.

He said Governor Nyesom Wike has approved the hosting of the Rio 2016 Olympic qualifier to demonstrate the importance his administration attaches to sports development, adding that the state has set up various sub-committees to give the encounter a befitting organisation and coordination.

Iyaye promised Nigerians and visitors coming for the game the best of traditional Rivers’ hospitality, adding that Governor Wike has paid for the tickets and as such, fans would be entering the stadium for free.

Iyaye explained the governor’s gesture was to ensure that the team did not lack any support before, during and after the match. 

He appealed to the people of the state and environs to come out and give maximum support to the team, while also calling for good behaviour from fans in order to ensure Port Harcourt continues to host international matches.

The former Rivers sports also reiterated that the state was a safe ground for all sporting activities, pointing out that it had successfully hosted several hitch-free competitions.