ASTA2024:High Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu Inducted as Grand Patron of Africa Sports and Tourism Awards
Abuja, Nigeria
In a momentous event held on Thursday, the 25th of April 2024, at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, a new chapter unfolded in the realm of sports and tourism recognition in Africa. High Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was formally inducted as the Grand Patron of the Africa Sports and Tourism Awards (ASTA), marking a significant milestone in the industry. The ceremony, conducted by His Excellency, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the former Governor of Osun State, Special Guest of Honour drew industry players, dignitaries and enthusiasts from across the continent.
The Africa Sports and Tourism Awards, an initiative spearheaded by Amb. Peace Onuiri, CEO of Project Fly With Us, has emerged as a beacon of excellence, celebrating the remarkable achievements and contributions of individuals and organizations in advancing sports and tourism across Africa. The induction of High Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu as the Grand Patron adds a new dimension of leadership and guidance to this esteemed platform.
High Chief Iwuanyanwu expressing gratitude while Amb. Peace Onuiri, the Convener ASTA; Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, ex- Governor, Osun State and Pa Onuiri, father of Amb. Peace looked on at the event in Abuja.
High Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu dedication and passion for sports way back have been evident throughout his illustrious career. As a visionary leader and philanthropist, he has consistently advocated for the development and promotion of this vital sector, recognizing its immense potential to drive socio-economic growth and foster cultural exchange on the continent.
During the induction ceremony, His Excellency, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, commended High Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s unwavering commitment to advancing the agenda of sports and tourism in Africa. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and collective effort in harnessing the transformative power of these industries to create opportunities and empower communities.
The presence of industry players at the event underscored the significance of ASTA as a platform for fostering synergy and cooperation among stakeholders in the sports and tourism sectors. It provided an invaluable opportunity for networking, exchange of ideas, and recognition of outstanding achievements, inspiring a new wave of innovation and excellence across the continent.
Amb. Peace Onuiri, the driving force behind ASTA, expressed her gratitude to High Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu accepting the role of Grand Patron and for his unwavering support for the vision of the awards.
She reiterated the commitment of Project Fly With Us to continue championing initiatives that promote the growth and sustainability of sports and tourism in Africa.
On his part, High Chief lwuanyanwu , the President General of Ohaneze Indigbo Worldwide expressed his nostalgic feeling having won an award during his youthful age, and to also be recognised once more at age 80 years was a touching moment for him.
He appreciated the convener for the honour and promised to give all his support especially from his people.
As High Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu assumes his new role as Grand Patron of the Africa Sports and Tourism Awards, the industry looks forward to his guidance and leadership in steering the course towards greater heights of success and impact. His induction marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards realizing the full potential of sports and tourism as catalysts for development and prosperity in Africa.
Present at the event were the Hon. John Owan Enoh, Minister of Sports Development, Nigeria; Hon. Lola Ade John, Minister of Tourism, Nigeria; Hon. Mustapha Ussif, Minister of Sports and Youth, Ghana represented among other numerous dignitaries.
