By Ikenna Nwokedi 

Umunnachi Community of Dunukofia LGA of Anambra State on Wednesday, 25th September 2024 played a Testimonial Match for the departed legendary football administrator, Mr. Cyril Chukwuemeka Okalia.

The Testimonial Match played at the field of Igwebuike Migrant School Umunnachi, between Nnachi Warriors and Nnachi All Stars and powered by All Stars Umunnachi was to honour and pay a tribute to the Late Mr. Cy Okalia for his immense contributions to sports development in the community via the instrumentality of football.

The encounter which ended in a scored draw hitherto had a ceremonial kick-off performed by the Captain of the All Stars, Mr. Luke Ezeobi with prayers and a minute silence proceedings led by Dr. Chibuikem Amucheazi.

In their separate reactions by the illustrious sons and daughters of the community, Chief Onochie Okagbue described the late Okalia as a big motivator in the community not just in sports but in administration. Chief Okagbue disclosed that his first involvement in sports way back in year 2000 was because of the late Cy Okalia. He described the late Okalia as a pillar of sports while praying for repose of his soul.

On his part, a scholar and legal luminary, Dr. Chibuikem Amucheazi stated that the quantum of impact of the late Cy Okalia is a colossal one. Dr. Amucheazi informed that the late Okalia meant a whole lot to the community as he was into governance and contributed intellectually and financially and in many ways towards the growth of the community. The scholar opined that the testimonial match was to honour him while he also prayed God to accept his soul in his kingdom.

In his remarks, Hon. Emeka Odionu affirmed that the Late Cy Okalia's contributions to football development in the community cannot be overemphasized. Odionu revealed that the Late Okalia played the game starting with a stint at Niger Tornadoes and was instrumental in coordinating and organizing football programmes in Umunnachi Community and the Dunukofia Local Government Area. He informed that the Late Okalia's biggest achievement for the community was raising a team that won the Gov. Willie Obiano's Cup for the 177 communities in the state.

Also speaking, the Woman Leader of the Football Supporters' Club, Comrade Ngozi Okonkwo stated that the late Okalia's contributions to the community can be seen through sports with his keen interest in football. Comrade Okonkwo said Cy Okalia will be missed while also praying for the repose of his soul.

Comrade Odirah Ezeobi, Chairman of Umunnachi Sports Association described the late Cy Okalia as an icon of football who left a great legacy with his contributions to the town through football and sports in general. Ezeobi stressed that the late Okalia has left a big vacuum to be filled while he also prayed for the repose of his soul.

Tochukwu Onwubbah popularly known as 'Okwe' also eulogized the Late Cy Okalia for his innovations through sports development in the town, he described Okalia as selfless, dedicated and committed toward sports and recreational activities as a source of unity and conviviality in the community.

Hon. Engr. Emeka Okonkwo (Konti Komplete), MD/CEO ARTMA, who called in to offer his support during the testimonial match also re-echoed the views of others by appraising the good works of the Late Okalia. Engr. Okonkwo stated that Okalia will be missed for his ideas, vision and commitment towards the success of Umunnachi Konti Cup, Dunukofia Konti Cup and January 3rd Konti sponsored All Stars matches while also praying God to accept the soul of Cy Okalia.

Others who lend their voices to the tribute were the Chairman of Dunukofia Football Association and All Stars Captain, Engr. Okey Okeke; Chief Amaechi Okeke; Mr. Luke Ezeobi; Ikechukwu Oraegbuna; Mr. Daniel Ezeobi and many others. 

The testimonial match also offered a platform for various financial contributions towards the funeral of the late sensational football administrator.