By EMMA JEMEGAH
Over N2 million is at stake as prize monies for Lagos State mechanics in the maiden Hyde Energy Champions League to showcase mechanics as the heroes of their field, using football as an outlet to highlight their status within society.
The global energy trading company, with a downstream network renowned for its commitment to providing reliable energy solutions, has announced the launch of the “Hyde Cup #MechanicsChampionsLeague”.
This eight-week initiative, which aims to foster stronger relationships within the mechanic community, was unveiled in Lagos yesterday.
A statement from Hyde energy says the competition aims to celebrate and honour the invaluable contributions of mechanics to the automobile industry in Nigeria.
“The ‘Hyde Cup’ competition is not just about football; it’s about celebrating our partners, the mechanics, and showcasing their talent and dedication,” said Mr. DimejI Edwards, Chief Executive of Hyde Energy.
“By bringing mechanics together through sports, we aim to provide them with a memorable experience, shape perceptions, and highlight their important status within the community,” he added.
Speaking at the unveiling, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Alhaji Mobolaji Ogunlende, said, “The Lagos State government is excited with Hyde Energy for putting together this initiative. The initiative is fostering collaboration among Hyde Energy, Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), and Lagos State to make the society a better place. We encourage more organisations will emulate this initiative.”
The competition will last for seven weeks and will feature six match days, with games scheduled every Sunday starting from April 21, 2024. The first four weeks will consist of group stages, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarterfinals. The knockout rounds will commence on Sunday, May 19, 2024, leading up to the highly anticipated finals on Sunday, May 26, 2024, with the top two teams competing for the prestigious ‘Hyde Cup.’
The seeding for the group stage of the competition was conducted by Mr. Edwards of Hyde Energy and Lagos State Chairman, Chairman of Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), Lagos State, Comrade Moruf Egberongbe, determining which teams would face each other ensuring a fair and competitive tournament.
“I am grateful to Hyde Energy for their vision and commitment to supporting our technicians. Together, we will raise the bar for professionalism and excellence in the automotive industry,” said the NATA Chairman, Comrade Moruf Egberongbe.
The campaign will be concluded with an award ceremony on Sunday, June 2, 2024, where the Hyde Cup winner will receive N2 million worth of Hyde Energy products, while the first and second runners-up will receive N1.3 million and N700, 000 worth of products. The Most Valuable Players, Golden Boot, Safest Hands and Best Coach will win N250, 000 worth of goods.