Abia to Create More Opportunities for Youths as ASF State Finals Draw Takes Centre Stage

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti says that his administration remains committed to creating opportunities for youths in Abia to thrive and continue to serve in vital platforms such as sports.

Governor Otti stated this during the Abia Soccer Fest (ASF) 2025/2026 State Finals Draw held on Wednesday, at the JAAC Secretariat, Umuahia.

The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu said the Abia State Soccer Fest stands as a testament to his vision of discovering talents, promoting discipline, and encouraging healthy competition to all participating teams.

According to the Governor, the successful conduct of the draw signals the official takeoff of what promises to be an exciting and highly competitive tournament.

He urged participating teams to prepare diligently, compete fairly, and uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship throughout the tournament and commended the organisers for ensuring a transparent and credible draft process.

“Remember, beyond winning, you are ambassadors of your local government areas and role models to many young, inspiring athletes,” the governor said.

“It is our expectation that the same level of professionalism will be maintained throughout this very special competition.

“As we leave here today, let us look forward to a tournament filled with excitement, excellence, and unforgettable moments,” Gov. Otti stated.

In his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu disclosed that about sixty outstanding talents have been discovered from the competition that started from the ward level through the local governments to the draws for the State.

He expressed optimism that at the end of the competition the talents would be sought after by football clubs within and outside the country.

Speaking also, Commissioner for Sports Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba described the draw as a significant step in the preparation for the State finals.

He noted that a remarkable enthusiasm has been witnessed during the lower stages of the tournament, noting that the next level calls for healthy competition excellence and sportsmanship.

Sir Ananaba encouraged participants to compete in passion with respect for the rules of the games, adding that the Ministry of Sports remains committed to the initiative that empowers youths, harnessing potential and position Abia State as a hub for sports excellence.

The Chairman, Local Organising Committee, LOC Ide John Udeagbala, noted that the Abia State Soccer Fest was created as a platform to discover talents at the grassroots, promote unity and engage the youths positively.

Ide Udeagbala disclosed that over 100 matches have so far been played across the 17 LGAs, while the best teams have earned their place in the State finals.

He expressed appreciation to governor Alex Otti for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment for youth development and grassroots sports, thanking the commissioner for Sports and Youth Development for guidance which he said has been instrumental to the success of the initiative.

The LOC Chairman while thanking members of his team for cooperation and dedication, assured that the LOC remains committed to ensuring that State finals are very prosperous fair well organised and truly memorable.

In her remarks, the ASF LOC Secretary and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lady Oge Maduka, while thanking the Governor for the vision towards youth empowerment and grassroots development, applauded the entire LOC members for commitment, coordination and grassroots mobilisation to the success of the initiative.

She urged participating teams, to play with discipline, passion and responsibility, adding that beyond the winning of the game, the platform is an opportunity for growth and visibility.