Committee Announces Completion of Phase One of Abia Soccer Fest, Uncovers 50 Talents

The Organising Committee of the Abia Soccer Fest (ASF) has announced the successful completion of Phase One of the grassroots football tournament across Abia State.

At the end of the first phase, the state government rewarded outstanding teams with prize money and medals. The champions received ₦500,000, runners-up were awarded ₦250,000, while the bronze medallists went home with ₦100,000.

The committee also confirmed the discovery of over 50 promising young football talents across the state as preparations begin for Phase Two of the competition.

Speaking at a press conference organised by the Local Organising Committee (LOC), the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, said the tournament is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. He noted that the competition is dear to Governor Alex Otti and aligns with the administration’s vision for youth empowerment through sports.

According to him, Phase One of the tournament covered all 771 autonomous communities across the 17 local government areas of the state. Champions emerged from the various wards, with a total of 166 matches played statewide.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the LOC, Ideh John Udeagbala, represented by the Vice Chairman, Captain Eric Asomugha, said the tournament had already identified more than 50 young football talents, adding that even more discoveries are expected during the State Finals.

He disclosed that the state government is partnering with Nigerian league clubs and reputable football scouting agencies to ensure that the identified talents are properly nurtured and guided into professional football careers.

According to him, the competition is a talent-driven initiative that aligns with the state government’s strategic focus on youth development and sustainable sports growth.

“This competition is all about talent discovery and football development. So far, we have identified over 50 promising talents from a pool of more than 3,000 players. This number will increase as we progress to the State Finals, where scouts will be fully on ground to observe and select the best talents,” he said.

He further revealed that the committee has scheduled engagements with league clubs and other reputable teams within and outside the state, as well as with player managers and scouts, to broaden opportunities for the young players.

Reiterating the committee’s commitment, he said the ASF is designed to deliver a comprehensive football programme that transforms lives and lays a solid foundation for future champions.

He explained that Phase One, which commenced in August 2025, featured 184 ward teams and produced champions in each of the 17 local government areas. Phase Two, which will serve as the State Finals, is scheduled to begin in 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.

In her remarks, the Secretary of the Committee and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lady Oge Maduka, assured the public of the committee’s commitment to transparency, safety and professionalism throughout the championship. She expressed gratitude to all stakeholders whose contributions ensured the success recorded in Phase One.

Lady Maduka urged players to maintain discipline and sportsmanship as the State Finals approach and reaffirmed the committee’s dedication to professionalism in the discharge of its duties. She also commended Governor Alex Otti for his commitment to sports development and youth talent identification through the Abia Soccer Fest.

Several members of the organising committee were present at the press conference.