Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to sports development as part of efforts to secure the state’s standing on the continental and global sporting stage.
Governor Otti stated this on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), led by its President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
The Governor announced that plans had been finalised for the upgrade of the Umuahia Township Stadium to ensure it meets the requirements for Abia Warriors Football Club and other teams to utilise in the interim.
He further disclosed that architectural designs were ongoing for the construction of a modern Stadium City in Umuahia, which would serve as a long-term solution to drive sporting development in the state.
Describing sports, particularly football, as a powerful unifying force, Governor Otti stressed that good governance must translate into tangible impacts on the lives of citizens.
He commended the NFF for its continued support of the State’s Sports initiatives and assured the delegation of Abia State’s sustained collaboration with the National Football body.
Governor Otti, who reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to maintain Abia’s position as a sporting powerhouse, also used the occasion to congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the impressive performance of the Super Falcons at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Earlier in his remarks, the NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, said the Federation’s visit was to express appreciation for Governor Otti’s steadfast support for sports development.
Gusau who highlighted the State’s impressive record in continental competitions, described Abia as the “home of football” in Nigeria,
He noted that Abia Warriors Football Club, under the current administration, had emerged as one of the top three football teams in the country.
The NFF President called on the Governor to expedite the rehabilitation of the Umuahia Township Stadium and pledged the Federation’s technical support to ensure its full restoration and functionality.
Also present at the meeting were the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba Chairman of Abia Warriors FC, Mr John Obuh and other key stakeholders in the sports sector.
