By Vera Wisdom- Bassey
The Island All-Stars Sports Club (IASC), a globally recognised organisation with a presence in 87 countries, recently hosted its manifesto night in Lagos.
The event served as a formal platform for candidates contesting key leadership positions, including the offices of president, secretary and assistant public relations officer, to present their visions and plans for the club’s future.
This significant gathering precedes the club’s upcoming general elections, which will usher in a new executive team to steer the organisation for the next three years.
In his farewell remarks, outgoing president, Ikenna Maduagwu, described the club as the fastest-growing sports network in the West African region. He noted that IASC currently boasts of over 400 active members who participate in a wide array of sports, including football, lawn tennis, swimming, snooker, draughts and table tennis. He emphasised that the club is not only a hub for athletic engagement but also a stronghold of social networking, professional development and community service.
“This night marks an important moment in the life of our club,” Maduagwu said. “Manifesto Night is more than just a tradition, it is a democratic exercise that enables members to hear directly from those seeking to lead us. Our new leaders will not only organise sporting activities but also drive the club’s values of unity, excellence and social impact.”
He highlighted several of the club’s key initiatives beyond sports. One of such initiatives is the annual family night, a special event that brings members together with their spouses and children to foster stronger family bonds within the IASC community.
He underscored the club’s dedication to social responsibility. He cited the Back to School project, a major educational outreach programme conducted in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Education. Under the initiative, IASC distributes educational materials to public schools across the state, with donations worth millions of Naira. The club also extends its goodwill to hospitals by assisting financially disadvantaged patients in settling medical bills.
As the evening progressed, all contestants were given time to articulate their plans and how they would contribute to the club’s continued growth and success. The presentations covered a range of topics, from strengthening internal structures to expanding the club’s outreach and enhancing member welfare.
Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission of IASC, Chief Mandis Durum, assured members of a credible and transparent election process. He noted that all necessary preparations had been made to ensure a free and fair election.
“Our mandate is clear: to conduct an unbiased election that reflects the true will of the members. We are committed to a process that upholds the integrity and spirit of this great club,” Durum said.
With the stage now set for the elections, members of the Island All-Stars Sports Club eagerly anticipate the emergence of a new leadership team poised to guide the club into its next chapter of excellence and service.