The Abia State Government has announced the completion of the First Phase of the Abia Soccer Fest (ASF) and confirmed the discovery of over 50 promising Young Football talents across the State as the grassroots tournament progresses to its second stage.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Uzor Nwachukwu disclosed this on Friday during a Press Conference organized by the Local Organising Committee (LOC), a joint initiative of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Nwachukwu while noting the importance of the tournament to the State Government said that the project “is dear to the State Governor and to the Government of Abia State, in the sense that this project impacts the locals, it impacts our communities”.
The Commissioner, revealed that the First Phase covered all 771 Autonomous Communities in the 17 Local Government Areas of the State.
He said that the playoffs produced champions from the various wards, culminating in a total of 166 matches played across the State.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Ideh John Udeagbala, represented by the Deputy Chairman, Captain Eric Asumugha, said the grassroots tournament had already identified more than 50 promising young Football talents across the State and added that more discoveries were expected during the Second Phase of the State Finals.
Asumugha said that the State Government is partnering with the Nigerian League Clubs and reputable Football Scouting Agencies to ensure that the talents discovered are nurtured and channelled into professional paths.
He noted that the project aligns with the State Government’s strategic focus on Youth development and sustainable sports growth.
“I want to let you know that this competition is all about talent discovery and Football development. So far, through this competition, we have identified over 50 promising talents from the pool of more than 3,000 players.
“This number will continue to grow as we progress to the State Finals. Scouts will be fully on ground during the finals to observe and select best talents.
“Beyond that, we already scheduled engagements with league clubs and other reputable teams within the State to ensure these talents are nurtured and channelled into professional paths.
“We will also collaborate with Player Managers and Scouts within and outside Abia State to widen opportunities for these young talents.
“And also, I want you to understand that this is in alignment with the Governor’s vision. So, every step we have taken aligns with the vision and manifesto of His Excellency, Governor Dr. Alex Otti, particularly in the area of Youth Empowerment, talent development and sustainable Sports growth.
“We remain committed to delivering a total football programme that transforms lives and builds a solid foundation for future champions”, he said.
Capt Asumugha disclosed that the First Phase, which began in August 2025, featured 184 ward teams and produced Champions in each of the 17 Local Government Areas.
He added that the State Government rewarded the top-performing teams with prize money and medals, noting that the champions received ₦500,000, the runners-up got ₦250,000, while the bronze medallists were awarded ₦100,000.
Asumugha said that the awards were meant “to show appreciation of what the State is trying to do in developing football from the grassroots”, noting that each ward team also received ₦100,000 as preparation support.
Asumugha said that the second phase which is the State Finals scheduled to begin in late January or early February 2026, will feature the 17 LGA champions who will compete across four designated zones of Umuahia, Aba, Ohafia, and Arochukwu and culminatw in a grand finale at the Umuahia Township Stadium.
In her remarks, the Secretary of the Committee and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lady Oge Maduka expressed gratitude to all stakeholders whose efforts facilitated the successful first phase.
She urged players to sustain discipline and sportsmanship as the State state finals approach and assure the public of their commitment to transparency, safety and professionalism throughout the championship.
