REPORTER: PEACE AGBO
The First Phase of the Abia Soccer Fest has ended with the discovery of over 50 promising Young Football talents across the 17 LGAs State.
Speakincg to Newsmen during a Press Conference organized by the Local Organising Committee (LOC), a joint initiative of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu said the grassroots tournament progresses to its second stage.
Prince Nwachukwu noted that the First Phase covered all 771 Autonomous Communities in the 17 Local Government Areas of the State stressing that the tournament produced champions from the various wards, culminating in total of 166 matches played across the State.
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, LOC, Ideh John Udeagbala, represented by the Deputy Chairman, Captain Eric Asumugha, said the State Government is partnering with the Nigerian League Clubs and reputable Football Scouting Agencies to ensure that the talents discovered were nurtured and channelled into professional paths.
He noted that the project aligns with the State Government’s strategic focus on Youth development and sustainable sports growth.
Capt Asumugha explained that the State Government rewarded the top-performing teams with prize money and medals, noting that the champions received ₦500,000, the runners-up got ₦250,000, while the bronze medallists were awarded ₦100,000.
He added that the second phase which is the State Finals would begin next year.
