By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi
Members of the local organising committee and sub technical committee for the Limbe and Buea 2019 African Cup of Nation’s site have been installed recently in Buea by the governor of the South west region, Bernard Okalia Bilai.
The installation ceremony which took place at the conference room of the governor’s office saw the presence of the government delegate of the Limbe city council, D.O’s, Mayors and other dignitaries.
During the meeting, the governor of the South West region, Bernard Okalia Bilai appreciated the collective efforts put in place by the various stakeholders to ensure the effective start of preparations to host the 2019 AFCON tournament.
“Your appointment as committee members in various capacities is a mark of confidence and high esteem by the hierarchy and it also falls in line with the recent order by his Excellency, President Paul Biya to see to it that our country indeed hosts the AFCON 2019” Governor Okalia told committee members.
“In spite of the many challenges faced in the follow up of the numerous projects earmarked in our region for that purpose in the previous year, the brilliant success of the competition in our region will be attributed to the relentless efforts in ensuring that goals set by the head of states are met in the region.
“Fortunately for us this year, unlike the previous year, most of the infrastructural works have already been completed but we have to put in more efforts to ensure a total success of the AFCON 2019. A race is never complete until you cross the finishing line”. Governor Okalia added.
He equally noted that, “it is for this reason that such an opportunity is being used to underscore the necessity for each and everyone to fully play their role for the total success of the event in our region. The head of states and his government has placed confidence in us by choosing Limbe and Buea as AFCON sites, we on our part cannot afford to disappoint the highest authority of the nation, President Paul Biya.”
Governor Bilai therefore urged all the chairpersons and members of their respective sub committees to rapidly draw up their plan of action and programs as well as a draft budget for the accomplishment of the various activities within each subcommittee. He warned against last minute preparations which might lead to failure.
He also enjoined the newly installed committee members to demonstrate a high sense of commitment, to be devoted and to be duty consciousness in the execution of their various tasks.
“Beyond infrastructural development, a successful organization of the tournament in our region will be another demonstration of our patriotism and ability to promote a positive image of our region and the country in general”, he concluded