Rivers Counts Gains Of Olympic Qualifier As RSG Gears For Sunday Qualifier

Ahead Sunday’s  U-23 Olympic qualifying match between Nigeria and Congo, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) says the state will benefit hugely for hosting the game.
Already, it says everything has been put in place for a smooth match billed to be played in the 40,000-capacity Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in the Greater Port Harcourt City area in the next two days.
The Chairman of the LOC and former Commissioner for Sports in the state, Hon. Boma Iyaye, said the event will energise the state’s economy, attract visitors and boost tourism.
“Port Harcourt, indeed, Rivers State, has the capacity to continue to play frontline role in sports activities in Nigeria. We have done it before, we are ready to do it again. We, therefore, call on Rivers people and football lovers in the country to throng the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium”, he said.
According to him, there will be no gate charges, while gates will be open from 11am for spectators and fans.
He disclosed that free buses have been engaged to convey people to and from the match venue, just as he called on sports-loving people of the state to come out in their numbers to cheer the U-23 team to victory.
Responding to questions on the state of the pitch and facilities at the stadium, Iyaye disclosed that the condition of the pitch has been improved and that facilities are in good shape.
He lauded the state Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, for agreeing to host the match at a time many states are running away from shouldering extra financial burden due to the state of the economy.
Iyaye further commended the sports-loving governor for paying eight months’ salary arrears owed players of Sharks, Dolphins and Rivers Angels, saying the gesture shows that he is ready to encourage sports and talents development in the state.