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From Obinna Odogwu, Awka
Patricklingo Pharmaceutical Ltd has committed the sum of N3.5 million as prize money for the 2026 Chakapain Anambra All Stars Game involving 25 football teams.
Chief Executive Officer of the company, Chief Patrick Uchechukwu Onwuelingo, disclosed the financial package at Awka City Stadium on Sunday during the opening ceremony of the tournament being organised in partnership with the Anambra State Football Association.
Onwuelingo, represented by Chief Chinenye Ezeagu, broke down the prize money, saying that while the champions of the game would receive the sum of ₦2,000,000; the first runner-up would receive ₦1,000,000 while the second runner-up would go home with ₦500,000.
“These prizes are not simply rewards for winning matches”, he pointed out. “They recognise dedication, teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. More importantly, they reflect our commitment to supporting community football and encouraging initiatives that bring people together.”
He said that when the idea of the statewide game for people age 40 and above was presented to the company for sponsorship, his team saw beyond just another football tournament but an opportunity to promote healthy living, strengthen community bonds, and remind people that age should never be a barrier to living an active and fulfilling life.
“Looking at the players gathered here today, I do not just see footballers. I see fathers, entrepreneurs, professionals, artisans, public servants, and respected members of our communities.
“More importantly, I see men who have chosen not to let age define their strength, their passion, or their ability to inspire others. That is something worth celebrating”, he added.
Describing football as more than a game, Onwuelingo said that it teaches discipline, teamwork, resilience, respect, and sacrifice; pointing out that “those values are just as important in our homes, businesses, and communities as they are on the football pitch.”
“Our hope is that this competition will inspire more people across Anambra State to embrace physical activity, regardless of age. We want more people to understand that healthy living is not something we pursue only when we fall sick. It is a commitment we make every day.”
Onwuelingo commended Anambra State Football Association for its vision, dedication, and hard work in bringing the tournament to life; as well as the referees, match officials, medical personnel, volunteers, security agencies, and everyone working in different ways to make the game worthwhile.
“I encourage you to compete with passion, determination, and respect. Play to win but play with honour. When the final whistle is blown, only one team will lift the trophy, but everyone who takes part will have contributed to something much bigger.”
In his speech, the state Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Mr. Patrick Agha Mba, representatives by the Chairman of the Anambra State FA, Chief Chikelue Iloenyosi, commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo, for investing in sports development.
He also the pharmaceutical company for sponsoring the tournament, saying that the sports ministry under his watch would keeping doing its best to promote sports development in the state.
