The Onitsha Country Club has added to its array of sporting facilities by commissioning the newly renovated state-of-the-art squash hall which had been abandoned for over four decades.
The event which took place on Sunday 19th at the clubhouse attracted prominent individuals including men of the Nigerian army and the Nigerian police force, it also featured an award presentation and Timjam Health Drink international promotional tournaments closing ceremony.
The renovation of the historic squash hall is part of the club’s effort to rekindle and strengthen its age-long relationship with the Nigerian Army which dates back to 1974 when the vicinity served as a Barack and playground for the Nigerian Army. The hall was named after HRM Igwe Charles Ezeudeogu (kSS), Igwe Orazulunye, Obi lol of Ichida, for his active involvement contributions and impact on the club.
Speaking to our reporter, the special guest of Honor Lieutenant Colonel Ayuba Nandang, the Commanding Officer 14th Field Engineer Regimen Nigerian Army Onitsha appreciated the club for renovating the squash Hall and remembering their roots.
According to Lt. Col. Nandang “The squash game is an important game and is most cherished by the Nigerian Army because it keeps them agile and always on the move and I believe that this event and Onitsha country club in particular will not just bring development but will enforce the needed synergy between the Nigerian army and the people of Onitsha.”
Speaking at the events the Royal father of the day who was also awarded the Patron of the club, HRM igwe Charles Ezeudeogu (kSS), Obi lol of Ichida, ably represented by Ambassador Chika Ezenwalie who expressed his joy for the deserved award and commended the club for giving a facelift to the oldest standing building in the arena and for maintaining a good relationship with the Nigerian army to date. Ambassador Ezenwalie is the chairman of Ichida Great Forum, Onitsha branch.
Earlier, the President, of Onitsha Country Club, Chief Kingsley Anietonwa during his welcome speech expressed satisfaction with the turnout of the event and to the Nigerian Army for honouring their invitation, which he said is a testament that their relationship is still intact.
Chief Anietonwa said Onitsha Country Club aims to encourage broader participation in sports and recreational activities, disclosing that plans are in place to establish a tennis academy where children from the community and its environs will have access to sporting activities.
He appreciated the state governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo for the massive road construction in the area, pointing out that the poor state of the road posed a challenge to the club’s activities.
The presentation and launching of the club’s trophy won at the 2022, 2023 and 2024 Fada Pita Tennis League, competed amongst all the sports clubs in Anambra state and the trophy awards to the winners of Timjam Health Drink International Promotional tournaments, competed among the clubs members was the highlight of the event.
