In the bustling city of Ughelli, Delta State, a remarkable tale of passion, perseverance, and community spirit unfolds through the visionary leadership of Oke Umurhohwo. Far more than just a name, Oke embodies the essence of Nigerian football’s transformative power, intertwining his love for the beautiful game with a commitment to uplifting his community and inspiring the next generation of talent.
Oke’s journey towards founding Ughelli Rovers Football Club was not a sudden impulse but rather the culmination of years of dedication to fostering grassroots football development. For the past four years, Ughelli has been the stage for an annual football competition, orchestrated under the auspices of the Oke Umurhohwo Foundation. This tournament, conceived as a means to inspire and empower local youth, has become a cornerstone of community engagement and sporting excellence.
Rooted in his deep-seated belief in the transformative power of sport, Oke’s foundation has provided a platform for aspiring footballers to showcase their talent and pursue their dreams. Through the annual competition, countless young athletes have been given the opportunity to shine on the pitch, with the promise of greater opportunities and recognition beckoning on the horizon.
However, it was not until 2023 that Oke’s vision transcended the confines of a yearly tournament and blossomed into something truly extraordinary. Drawing inspiration from the success of his foundation’s initiatives and fueled by a desire to further nurture local talent, Oke took the bold step of founding Ughelli Rovers Football Club.
The establishment of Ughelli Rovers FC marked a new chapter in Oke’s journey, one that would see his vision of football development in Ughelli reach unprecedented heights. As the club’s founder, Oke’s leadership is instrumental in shaping the club’s identity as a beacon of excellence and opportunity for young footballers across the region.
Yet, Oke’s influence extends far beyond the realm of football. In addition to his philanthropic endeavors, he also serves as the Marketing Manager for West Africa at itel Phones, a leading global manufacturer of mobile devices. Through his work in the corporate world, Umurhohwo brings a wealth of expertise and resources to bear in support of his mission to uplift and empower his community through sport.
Today, as Ughelli Rovers FC is set to thrive under Oke’s stewardship, his multiple roles as a corporate leader, politician and community champion converge in a powerful testament to the potential for positive change. Through his unwavering commitment to football development and youth empowerment, Oke stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, purpose, and perseverance converge.
As the legacy of Ughelli Rovers FC begins to unfold, one thing remains abundantly clear: Oke Umurhohwo’s indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication will continue to shape the landscape of Nigerian football for generations to come. To me, this can be termed an inspiration.
Kola writes from Port Harcourt.
