By Chizaram Nnaji

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has lauded Guinness Nigeria Plc for selecting Enugu as the first stop in Nigeria for the English Premier League (EPL) trophy tour, describing the gesture as a testament to Guinness’ recognition of the state’s profound football legacy and evolving socio-economic renaissance.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Mbah at the event, the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, delivered the governor’s message during the official launch of the Guinness Match Day campaign in Enugu on Thursday, marking the company’s 75th anniversary in Nigeria.

Governor Mbah commended Guinness as a trusted and enduring brand, celebrating its contributions to sports development, youth empowerment, and national progress over the decades.

“We are truly honoured that Guinness Nigeria, in partnership with the English Premier League, chose Enugu as the first point of call for this prestigious trophy tour. This is not just a recognition of our proud football heritage; it is also a vote of confidence in the peace, progress, and infrastructure renewal that Enugu is witnessing today,” the governor said.

Governor Mbah described the visit as symbolic, noting that Enugu - home of the legendary Rangers International Football Club - has long been considered the spiritual home of Nigerian football. He further stated that the choice of Enugu underscored the trust global and national brands like Guinness place in the state’s potential and transformation under his administration.

He praised Guinness for its deep-rooted engagement with football fans across the country, particularly in the South-East, and its commitment to creating memorable experiences that go beyond entertainment to include social impact.

“Guinness has proven to be more than a beverage brand. It is a partner in our development journey - supporting clean water access, healthcare initiatives, education, and women’s economic empowerment. Enugu State appreciates this enduring partnership,” he said.

Governor Mbah reiterated his administration’s commitment to using sports as a tool for youth engagement, talent development, and economic growth, stating that partnerships like this align with his vision of repositioning Enugu as a hub for innovation, tourism, and excellence.

Guinness Nigeria’s Corporate Relations Director, Rotimi Odusola, who led the company’s delegation, explained that Enugu was the natural choice for the launch, given its unmatched history in Nigerian football and the ongoing transformation under Governor Mbah.

“Growing up, we all heard about the greatness of Rangers. Today, the transformation of Enugu under Governor Mbah convinced us that this is where we should start,” Odusola said.

Yinka Bakare, Guinness Nigeria’s Director of Marketing and Innovations, emphasized the brand’s synergy with football as a powerful unifier among Nigerians, while also highlighting the company’s far-reaching social investments.

Rangers FC General Manager, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, also praised Guinness for supporting grassroots football development, revealing that the club has structured youth teams from under-6 to under-17, and has integrated female football into its developmental programme.

The well-attended event featured the official presentation of the EPL trophy, interactive fan zones, and cultural showcases aimed at strengthening the connection between sports, heritage, and national pride.

Dignitaries at the event included top executives from Guinness Nigeria and Enugu State officials, further underlining the significance of the collaboration.

Governor Mbah concluded his remarks by urging more corporate organizations to emulate Guinness in supporting youth-focused initiatives and contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation through strategic partnerships.

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