Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth development, emphasizing sports as a vital platform for nurturing talent and promoting discipline among young people.
The governor made this known during the draw ceremony for the Abia Soccer Fest (ASF) 2025/2026 State Finals, held in Umuahia. Represented by his deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, Otti described the tournament as a strategic initiative aimed at discovering emerging talents, fostering healthy competition, and instilling the values of teamwork and sportsmanship.
He noted that the successful conduct of the draw officially signals the commencement of what is expected to be a highly competitive and engaging tournament.
The governor urged participating teams to prepare adequately, adhere to the principles of fair play, and maintain high standards of discipline throughout the competition.
Otti also commended the organisers for ensuring a transparent and credible draw process, reminding players that they represent not only themselves but also their respective local government areas, serving as role models to aspiring young athletes.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu, disclosed that about 60 promising players have already been identified from the competition, which began at the ward level and progressed through local government stages to the state finals.
He expressed optimism that many of the players would attract interest from football clubs within and beyond Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Sports, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, described the draw as a significant milestone in preparations for the finals.
He highlighted the enthusiasm recorded in earlier stages and called for sustained excellence, fair play, and sportsmanship as the tournament advances. He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to youth empowerment and the development of sports in the state.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Ide John Udeagbala, said the tournament was designed to identify grassroots talent, promote unity, and positively engage youths. He revealed that over 100 matches have been played across the 17 local government areas, with top teams qualifying for the state finals.
Udeagbala expressed appreciation to the state government for its support of youth-focused initiatives and assured that the committee would deliver a well-organised and credible final stage of the competition.
Similarly, the LOC Secretary and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Oge Maduka, commended the administration’s vision for youth empowerment.
She urged participating teams to compete with discipline and responsibility, noting that the tournament offers not only opportunities for victory but also exposure and personal development.
