Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka, supported by Governor Alex Otti, are set to establish a world-class football academy in Abia State. This initiative marks a significant investment in the state’s educational and sports sectors.
Sen. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election, has praised Governor Alex Otti and the people of Abia State for the progress and positive changes in the state. “The sun is shining in Abia finally,” Baba-Ahmed remarked during his visit to Abia State on June 19, 2024, accompanied by Nigeria’s Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka.
The purpose of their visit was to announce Onyeka’s plans to build a world-class football academy in Abia State, with strong support from Governor Otti. “I brought your own son, Frank Onyeka, who plays football for Nigeria. He is committed to education through sports, which aligns perfectly with Governor Otti’s vision for the state,” Baba-Ahmed said.
Governor Otti has demonstrated his commitment to education by allocating 20% of the state budget to the sector, approaching the 26% recommendation by UNESCO and the World Bank. This focus on education has inspired Onyeka to invest in the state.
During their visit, Baba-Ahmed expressed gratitude for the warm reception and prompt attention from Governor Otti, who promised to support Onyeka’s dream of building the sports academy. “This is a simple one. I will fix it,” Governor Otti assured, pledging to issue a Certificate of Occupancy within 48 hours to facilitate the project.
Frank Onyeka, who also plays for Brentford FC in the English Premier League, shared his motivation for the investment. “I have seen the Governor’s vision for improving the state and attracting more investments. I want to give back to the people of Abia State, which is why I am here.”
This visit and the planned football academy represent a significant boost to Governor Otti’s efforts to advance the sports sector in Abia State, which includes his promise to build a standard Games Village at Nsulu.
Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti on Media and Publicity, confirmed these developments, highlighting the collaborative effort to uplift Abia State through strategic investments in sports and education.
