Governor Otti Assures NFF Of Continued Support For National Football Growth

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the development of football in Nigeria, pledging continued support for the growth of the sport at both state and national levels.

Governor Otti gave this assurance on Tuesday, July 30, 2025, during a meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), led by its President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, at the Government House in Umuahia.

The Governor emphasized the importance of football as a unifying force and a tool for youth engagement, development, and social cohesion. He noted that under his leadership, Abia State will continue to serve as a strong pillar in Nigeria’s football landscape.

“Football remains one of the most powerful platforms to engage our youth and bring people together. We are committed to supporting not just football in Abia, but also contributing meaningfully to the national football development agenda,” Governor Otti stated.

He also disclosed that his government has approved the immediate upgrade of the Umuahia Township Stadium to a modern standard for short-term use by Abia Warriors Football Club and other teams. He further unveiled plans for a long-term project — the establishment of Abia Stadium City, a world-class sports and entertainment complex already in the design phase.

Governor Otti commended the NFF for its role in promoting the game across the country and promised to deepen collaboration with the federation for the benefit of Nigerian football.

In his response, NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, applauded Governor Otti’s clear vision for sports development and his administration’s strides in repositioning Abia as the “home of football” in Nigeria. He specifically praised the success of Abia Warriors Football Club and the state’s historic contributions to Nigerian football.

“Abia has always been a key contributor to football in Nigeria, and under Governor Otti, we are seeing a renewed passion and investment in the sport. The history of Nigerian football is incomplete without Abia,” Gusau said.

He called for the quick rehabilitation of the Umuahia Township Stadium and pledged the NFF’s technical assistance to ensure its readiness for top-level football matches.

Also present at the meeting were the Abia State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba; Chairman of Abia Warriors FC, Mr. John Obuh; and other top sports administrators.

Governor Otti’s renewed assurances mark a significant step in building stronger ties between state governments and the national football body, with Abia poised to remain a vital force in the future of Nigerian football.