By Moses J. Dawoe
/Southeast Correspondent
The Friends of Eric Wlea Giko have donated the sum of LR$85,000 to the Liberia Football Association (LFA) Maryland County Chapter as it embarks on the zonal tournament involving 19 football zones in Pleebo-Sodoken District, Maryland County.
The Chairman of the Friends of Eric Giko in Maryland County, Alex Bai David, made the donation on April 21, 2025, at the headquarters of the Friends of Giko in Pleebo City, Maryland County.
Speaking at the event, David said some participating zones in the upcoming zonal tournament had reached out to him for financial assistance to register their teams for the tournament organized by the LFA Maryland County Chapter. As part of his contribution towards the 2025 LFA Zonal League, Mr. Giko decided to step in.
David further explained that following the requests made by several zones, Mr. Eric Wlea Giko decided to cover the full registration cost for all 19 zones to ensure inclusivity and avoid favoritism in his service to Marylanders.
During the event, the Friends of Giko Chairman emphasized that Mr. Giko believes sports unite people and foster peace among residents of the county.
According to him, after the 2023 general elections, residents of Pleebo-Sodoken District remain divided along political lines, causing internal confusion—something he said undermines the peace of the county and the country as a whole.
Moreover, George Brooks, Secretary General of the Maryland Sports and Athletic Commission, commended Mr. Giko for his generous contribution to the LFA in the district and other parts of the county.
Brooks noted that on many occasions, the LFA has received significant support from Mr. Eric Wlea Giko, especially when zones struggle to secure the necessary funds for registration in upcoming tournaments.
He further stated that Giko has contributed greatly to past LFA tournaments by providing meals, referee outfits, trophies, and other support. He therefore called on other well-meaning Marylanders to support sporting activities in the county.
Brooks concluded by stating that Giko’s continued contributions have earned him recognition as a key sponsor and true lover of sports. The LFA, he added, remains committed to supporting all efforts made by Giko.
