Gov Otti Unveils Abia Soccer Fest Fixtures, Signals Kick-off of High-Stakes State Finals as Abia Targets Grassroots Football Excellence

The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has officially launched the 2025/2026 Abia Soccer Fest (ASF) State Finals with the unveiling of draws and fixtures, setting the stage for a thrilling and competitive grassroots football tournament across the state.

Representing the Governor at the ceremony held at the JAAC Building Hall, Umuahia, the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, described the tournament as a vital platform for youth engagement, talent discovery, and the promotion of unity among the 17 Local Government Areas.

He noted that “the successful conduct of the draws and unveiling of fixtures signals the official take-off of what promises to be an exciting and highly competitive tournament,” expressing confidence that the competition would deliver memorable moments and foster stronger community bonds.

The Deputy Governor commended the organisers and stakeholders for ensuring a transparent and seamless draw process, adding that the growing enthusiasm surrounding the competition reflects its rising profile in Abia’s sports development landscape.

Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to youth empowerment through sports, he emphasized that “the Abia Soccer Fest stands as a testament to this vision—discovering talents, promoting discipline, and encouraging healthy competition.” With fixtures now confirmed, he charged participating teams to approach the tournament with discipline, dedication, and a strong sense of sportsmanship.

“Now that the fixtures are set, the real task begins. I urge you to prepare diligently, compete fairly, and uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship,” the Deputy Governor said, reminding teams of their roles as ambassadors of their respective Local Government Areas.

In their separate remarks, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Local Government Affairs, Sir Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, and the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, applauded Governor Otti’s leadership in promoting grassroots football and youth development.

They noted that the competition, which began at the community level, has already produced notable talents and strengthened unity across local governments, with the current stage featuring champions from each area.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Sir Ude John Udeagbala, emphasized the importance of the initiative in fostering discipline and providing opportunities for young players, while the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Secretary of the LOC, Lady Oge Maduka, Esq, expressed gratitude to the state government and grassroots stakeholders for their continued support.

The draw session was conducted by the Draw Master and Head of Technical, Local Organising Committee, Captain Eric Asomugha, who guided the process that saw the 17 Local Government Areas drawn into four groups. Groups 1 to 3 consist of four teams each, while Group 4 comprises five teams. To ensure fairness and neutrality, it was also announced that no team will play on its home soil during the tournament.

The event was attended by senior government officials, including the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mrs. Magdalene Ugoanusi; Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Hon. Raymond Ukwa; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Pastor (Mrs) Jane Igwe; esteemed partners from the banking sector; as well as coaches, players, and other sports stakeholders.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
Government House, Umuahia
March 25, 2026.