Princess Alban Ugonwaezeh Sports and Youth Development Academy (PASYDA) visited HRM Igwe Dr. Robert C. Eze (Okofia VI) of Ukpo and his Royal Cabinet to raise awareness about rugby. Ukpo, a historic town in Dunukofia Local Government, Anambra State, is known for its rich cultural heritage and hospitality. It is also home to prominent philanthropists such as Prince Arthur Eze (Ozoigbondu), Hon. Sir Chukwudi Okeke (Ikpoaku n' Ukpo), and Charles Oramalu Onwuche (economist and political strategist).

For PASYDA's Founder, Amb. Princess Alban Ugonwaezeh-Agugo, this visit was a heartfelt return to her roots. Having spent much of her childhood at the palace while her mother taught at Central School, Ukpo, she was thrilled to reconnect with old friends and childhood peers.

PASYDA's mission extends beyond promoting rugby among the youth; it also seeks to attract potential investors and partners to support its programs. The organization believes that merely visiting schools and communities for photo opportunities is insufficient without ensuring the continuity of training due to financial constraints.

Although the government is ideally responsible for youth empowerment through sports, Community Based Development Schemes play a crucial role in this endeavor. Coaches, sport facilitators, and administrators are encouraged to engage with community leaders before launching grassroots programs in schools and communities to ensure sustained support and success.

In her introductory speech, Amb. Ugonwaezeh emphasized her deep connection to Ukpo, stating, "Ukpo is not just a community but a home for me as well. There’s more to Ukpo for me to explore beyond writing or mere speech." She was accompanied by Chief Iyom Ngozi Obikwelu (Iyom Ugochimelueze n' Agu-Ukwu), Founder of Solution Kitchen; Mr. Paul Vincent, PASYDA Rugby Coach; and other PASYDA staff.

Palace Protocol Officer Ichie Ekene Anolue (Ichie Ifechidelu) expressed gratitude to Amb. Princess Alban and her team for creating a platform that empowers youth through sports and skills. He assured that the Ukpo community would partner with PASYDA to include their children in the academy’s programs.

HRM Igwe Dr. Robert Eze gave his fatherly and royal blessings to the Global Icon and pledged his full support for PASYDA’s initiatives.