By Hon. Ifeanyi Agumba, ANIPR, FCS, FCIAP, Editor-in-Chief, Icegate Magazine International (PhD in view)
Umuaka community has long been a cradle of sporting talent, and one name that continues to echo across generations is Uché Kanu Anokwute—a football legend whose journey from grassroots competitions to the international stage stands as a testament to resilience, dedication, and excellence.
For over four decades, Anokwute was the longest-serving and most decorated player in the annual Umuaka Football Competition, a feat that firmly established him as a household name and role model for aspiring footballers. His remarkable career saw him wear the jerseys of some of Nigeria’s biggest clubs, including Kano Pillars FC, Iwuanyanwu Nationale, Sharks FC, Dolphins FC (Port Harcourt), Bayelsa United, Unicem Rovers, and Gombe United FC.
Not stopping at the national level, he also carved out a distinguished international career with FC Sheriff (Moldova), Tavryia Simferopol (Ukraine), Smouha FC (Egypt), and Hapoel Nazareth Elitt (Israel). He even earned a call-up to the Home-Based Super Eagles, experiences that enriched his understanding of football coordination, management, and strategy—skills he now channels into sports development.
Beyond the pitch, Anokwute’s influence extends into football administration. He serves as the Secretary of the Association of Ex-Iwuanyanwu Nationale Footballers Worldwide, a body that unites Nigeria’s football greats such as Kanu Nwankwo, Mobi Oparaku, Uche Okechukwu, Friday Ekpo, Mike Obi, and Ndidi Anumunu. Many members of this association now thrive as top coaches or FIFA-licensed agents, inspiring the next generation of players.
Today, Anokwute is set to begin another chapter of his illustrious journey as he aspires to serve as Chairman of the Akah Ebiri Sports Council. His mission is clear—to give back to the society that shaped him. His manifesto highlights bold, people-centered initiatives such as:
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Scouting & Exposure: Partnering with ex-internationals and FIFA-licensed agents to discover hidden talents in Umuaka.
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Festive Football Seasons: Using tournaments to motivate young players and promote football as a career path.
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Investment & Club Revival: Encouraging Akahlites to invest in grassroots football and revive historic clubs like Nnaka Thunders, Patros FC, and Chosen FC.
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Unity & Recognition: Strengthening community bonds and securing recognition for Umuaka at state and national levels.
Deeply passionate about youth empowerment, Anokwute believes the glory days of football in Akah land can return. With his international exposure, vast network, and unshakable commitment, he pledges to reposition Umuaka on the sporting map while fostering unity and pride among its people.
“Returning the glory days in Akah land through football is possible. Yes! It’s possible. All I need is our collective cooperation, prayers, and support,” he declares.
As the Akah Ebiri Sports Council elections draw near, all eyes are on Uché Kanu Anokwute—an icon whose legacy of excellence on the pitch is now set to inspire a renaissance in his community. Truly, for those who have witnessed his journey, the evidence speaks for itself.
More than news- Its Icegate