Abia State is set for an exciting phase of grassroots football following the successful conduct of draws and fixtures for the 2025/2026 Abia Soccer Fest (ASF) State Finals.
The Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, who presided over the ceremony on behalf of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti at the JAAC Building Hall, Umuahia, described the tournament as more than just a sporting event, but a unifying platform for youths across the state.
Emetu commended the organisers and stakeholders for ensuring a seamless and transparent draw process, noting that the growing enthusiasm surrounding the competition underscores its increasing popularity across the 17 local government areas of the state.
He expressed optimism that this year’s edition would not only showcase exceptional football talents but also strengthen unity and social bonds among communities. The Deputy Governor reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to leveraging sports as a strategic tool for youth empowerment and social development.
With fixtures now confirmed, he charged participating teams to demonstrate discipline, dedication, and a high level of sportsmanship throughout the tournament. He reminded them of their roles as ambassadors of their respective local governments and as role models to younger generations.
Emetu further urged officials and organisers to uphold professionalism to guarantee fairness, credibility, and the overall success of the competition.
In his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Local Government Affairs, Hon. Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, expressed delight at the realization of the vision to develop grassroots football in Abia. He recalled that the maiden edition of the Abia Sports Fiesta commenced in 2025, with all autonomous communities across the 17 local government areas actively participating.
According to him, the first phase of the competition, which concluded in December 2025, led to the discovery of about 60 remarkable talents at the local government level. He noted that the current stage of the tournament will feature champions from the various local governments, marking a significant progression in the competition’s structure.
He attributed the success of the initiative to the visionary leadership and commitment of Governor Alex Otti toward youth development and sports advancement in the state.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, and the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the Abia Soccer Fest, Mr. Ude John Udeagbala, commended the governor for his sustained investment in sports development.
They emphasized that the Abia Soccer Fest is designed to create opportunities for talent discovery at the grassroots level, promote unity, and engage youths in meaningful activities.
They further noted that the competition has already instilled discipline, sportsmanship, and a sense of purpose among participants, while providing a pathway for nurturing talents capable of competing at national and international levels.
In her closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and Secretary of the ASF LOC, Lady Oge Maduka, expressed gratitude to Governor Alex Otti for his unwavering support, noting that it reflects the importance the government places on sports development.
She also appreciated stakeholders at the grassroots level for their contributions, adding that the Soccer Fest will enhance growth and visibility for young talents across the state.
The event, which was well attended by top government officials and key stakeholders from the Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, featured the official draw ceremony and the unveiling of fixtures for teams in their respective groups.
Amah Ijeoma
FIC Correspondent office of the Deputy Governor
26/03/2026
