The Abia State Government has announced the successful completion of the First Phase of the Abia Soccer Fest (ASF), confirming the discovery of more than 50 promising young football talents as the grassroots tournament advances to its next stage.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Uzor Nwachukwu, disclosed this on Friday during a press briefing organised by the Local Organising Committee (LOC), a collaborative effort of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Nwachukwu emphasized the significance of the project, noting that the tournament is of great importance to Governor Alex Otti and the state government because of its direct impact on local communities across Abia.
He revealed that the First Phase covered all 771 autonomous communities in the 17 Local Government Areas of the state. The statewide playoffs produced champions from various wards, resulting in a total of 166 matches.
Representing the LOC Chairman, Ideh John Udeagbala, the Deputy Chairman, Captain Eric Asumugha, said the tournament had already identified over 50 promising young footballers, with expectations of more discoveries as the State Finals commence.
He explained that the state government is partnering with Nigerian league clubs and reputable scouting agencies to ensure the identified talents are groomed and guided toward professional careers. According to him, the initiative aligns with the government’s broader goals of youth development and sustainable sports growth.
Asumugha noted that the First Phase, which kicked off in August 2025, featured 184 ward teams and produced champions across all 17 LGAs. He added that the state government rewarded top-performing teams, with champions receiving ₦500,000, runners-up ₦250,000, and bronze medallists ₦100,000. Each ward team also received ₦100,000 as preparation support.
He further announced that the Second Phase—the State Finals—is scheduled for late January or early February 2026. It will feature the 17 LGA champions competing across four zones: Umuahia, Aba, Ohafia, and Arochukwu, before culminating in a grand finale at the Umuahia Township Stadium.
The Committee Secretary and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lady Oge Maduka, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their roles in ensuring the success of the First Phase. She urged players to maintain discipline and sportsmanship as the finals approach, assuring the public of the committee’s commitment to transparency, safety, and professionalism throughout the competition.
