In a heartfelt gesture, the Veteran Ex-Enugu Rangers International Footballers of the post Nigeria civil war era of 1970-1975 honoured Chief Ben Etiaba during a grand dinner held in Enugu. The event was in celebration of the Chief Medical Director of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Prof. Joseph Ugboaja, OON. The dinner, chaired by Prof. Chinedu Nebo, CON, also had Enugu Rangers International Football Club’s Chief Executive Officer, Amobi Ezeaku, Esq., as the Special Guest of Honour.
Chief Ben Etiaba was presented with a plaque signed by legendary footballers Christian Chukwu MFR, Emmanuel Okala MON, Dr. Johny Egbuonu, Dominic Nwobodo, Patrick Iluno, and Francis Nwosu. The presentation was made in appreciation of his benevolence, mentorship, brotherliness, and compassion toward the Veteran Ex-Rangers group.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this plaque from these football icons who have given so much to our people,” Etiaba said while acknowledging the award. “Their contribution to rebuilding the spirit of the Igbo nation after the civil war cannot be overstated.”
Christian Chukwu, representing the Veterans, expressed their gratitude for Etiaba’s constant support, noting that he has been a beacon of hope and strength for the group. “Chief Etiaba has shown us that he truly values our legacy and the sacrifices we made,” Chukwu said. “This plaque is a symbol of our deep appreciation for his unwavering commitment.”
In his response, Chief Etiaba reflected on the impact the Ex-Rangers team had on the Igbo community after the civil war. “Every war signifies the failure of conflict resolution mechanisms, but what comes afterward is equally important—rebuilding confidence in the people,” he stated. “These men brought joy and hope back to a people deeply wounded by war.”
Emmanuel Okala added his voice to the recognition, praising Etiaba’s dedication to the cause. “He is a rare gem who has continued to stand by us and uplift our spirits in difficult times. His compassion is second to none,” Okala remarked.
Dr. Johny Egbuonu, also signing the plaque, emphasized the unity between sports and nation-building. “Rangers were not just a football team; they represented the hope of an entire people. Chief Etiaba understands this and has supported us in keeping this legacy alive.”
The dinner in honour of Prof. Ugboaja provided a fitting backdrop for such a tribute, with Prof. Chinedu Nebo commending both the Ex-Rangers and Chief Etiaba for their contributions to the Igbo cause. “What we see here is a beautiful fusion of health, sports, and leadership, and it is truly inspiring,” Nebo said.
R-L: Enugu Rangers Int’l FC CEO Amobi Ezeaku Esq, Ben Etiaba, Dr. Johny Egbuonu, Dominic Nwobodo, Patrick Iluno
Dominic Nwobodo, another Veteran who signed the plaque, described Chief Etiaba as a symbol of resilience. “In times when others may have forgotten us, Chief Etiaba has remained steadfast. His generosity and kindness know no bounds,” Nwobodo affirmed.
As the night drew to a close, Amobi Ezeaku, Special Guest of Honour, noted the significance of the recognition. “Chief Etiaba’s consistent support for the Veterans is a testament to his leadership and character. He is a true supporter of the Rangers’ spirit,” Ezeaku said.
Chief Etiaba closed his remarks by once again thanking the Ex-Rangers and reaffirming his commitment to their cause. “I will always stand by you, just as you stood by our people in those dark times. Your legacy will forever be remembered,” he concluded.
The dinner not only honoured Prof. Ugboaja but also served as a celebration of history, unity, and the power of sport in healing a wounded people.