The maiden edition of the Agu N’Echeibe Youth Football Tournament, organized by the Member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, has concluded with Amuda Ward of Umunneochi Local Government Area emerging champions after a thrilling final encounter.
The tournament, designed to foster unity, promote grassroots sports development, and discover young football talents across the constituency, culminated in an exciting grand finale at the Isuikwuato Central Field under the theme, “Mobilizing Youths and Building the Future.”
In the final match, Amuda Ward defeated Isiala Ward 3 of Isuikwuato by 2-1 after a fiercely contested 60-minute encounter to clinch the coveted title and the grand prize of ₦2.5 million. Isiala Ward 3 settled for the runners-up position and received ₦1.5 million, while ABSU/Umuanyi Ward 10 secured third place after defeating Ezingodo Ward 2-0 and went home with ₦1 million. Ezingodo Ward finished fourth.
Speaking at the event, the Abia State Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Hon. Nwaobilor Ananaba, commended Hon. Ogah for creating a platform that unites young people and channels their energy towards productive ventures.
He noted that football competitions serve as effective tools for youth engagement and crime prevention, adding that the state government would continue to monitor outstanding talents discovered through such tournaments and facilitate their integration into professional football clubs, including Abia Warriors and Abia Comets.
According to him, one of the participants had already attracted the attention of the management of Enyimba Football Club, demonstrating the immense opportunities available through grassroots sports development.
Former Super Eagles captain and Chairman of Enyimba FC, Nwankwo Kanu, described the tournament as a valuable avenue for talent discovery and youth development.
Kanu praised Hon. Ogah for investing in young people through sports and creating opportunities that many footballers of his generation never enjoyed.
“We are here to hunt for talents. If I had this kind of opportunity while growing up, I would probably have achieved even more. It is not easy to organize youths and sustain a competition of this nature. These opportunities can be the beginning of great football careers,” Kanu stated.
A major highlight of the competition was the emergence of Emmanuel Okwuobasi, a talented left winger who played for ABSU/Umuanyi Ward 10 during the third-place match. Impressed by his exceptional performance, Kanu immediately offered him an opportunity to join Enyimba FC, opening the door to a potential professional football career.
Addressing participants and guests, Hon. Amobi Ogah reiterated that human capital development remains one of the central pillars of his representation.
The lawmaker explained that while empowerment initiatives such as vehicle distributions, tricycles, sewing machines, and scholarships remain important, investing in the talents and potential of young people provides long-term benefits for society.
“Football is a serious business globally. If not for this competition, many of these young stars discovered today would not have had the opportunity to showcase their talents. This is part of the mandate entrusted to us by the people, and I assure them that mandate will never be wasted,” Ogah said.
He also urged constituents to continue supporting Governor Alex Otti and Labour Party candidates ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing that collective support would accelerate development across Abia State.
In his remarks, the Labour Party’s Abia North Senatorial candidate, Chief David Ogba Onuoha (Bourdex), described the tournament as a powerful symbol of unity and youth empowerment.
According to him, football teaches discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and leadership qualities essential for nation-building.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Enyimba Feeders, Kanu Nwankwo, assured participants that the full list of players selected during the competition would be released soon, emphasizing the importance of creating pathways for young talents to achieve their dreams.
The tournament also featured youth mobilization, sensitization programmes, empowerment initiatives, and strategic partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable youth development across Isuikwuato and Umunneochi Local Government Areas.
In recognition of his contributions to the constituency, the Face of Umunneochi Organization presented an award to Hon. Amobi Ogah for his achievements and commitment to community development.
The grand finale ended in celebration as trophies and cash prizes were presented to the winning teams amid cheers from supporters, community leaders, football enthusiasts, and dignitaries who attended the historic event.
