…as Otti commits to creating opportunities for Abia youth
The 2025/2026 Abia Soccer Fest (ASF) has progressed into the state finals with draws held to pitch competing soccer teams against each other for the football festival.
Alex Otti, governor of Abia State, while speaking at the recent state finals draw, held at the JAAC secretariat, Umuahia, stated that his administration remains committed to creating opportunities for youth in the state to thrive in sports and continue to serve in vital platforms across the state.
Otti stated that the successful conduct of the draw signals the official takeoff of what promises to be an exciting and highly competitive tournament.
“Remember, beyond winning, you are ambassadors of your local government areas and role models to pop young, inspiring athletes,” stated Otti, who was represented by Ikechukwu Emetu, deputy governor, Abia state.
According to the governor, Abia State Soccer Fest stands as a testament to his vision of discovering talents, promoting discipline, and encouraging healthy competition to all participating teams.
“It is our expectation that the same level of professionalism will be maintained throughout this very special competition,” Otti stated.
Nwaobilor Ananaba, the State’s Commissioner for Sports, 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.
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 youth, harnessing potential and position Abia state as a hub for sports excellence.
Uzor Nwachukwu, Abia State commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, disclosed that about 60 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.
John Udeagbala, chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC) 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.
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 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.
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