Governor Alex Otti has assured Abia Warriors Football Club of continued government support following their historic runner-up finish in the 2023/2024 FA Cup. At a reception held in their honor, the governor announced financial donations and promised further logistical aid.
In a show of appreciation and commitment, Governor Alex Otti OFR of Abia State has reassured the players and management of Abia Warriors Football Club of the state government’s unwavering support. This assurance came during a reception held on Tuesday, August 6th, in honor of the team’s remarkable achievement of reaching the finals of the 2023/2024 FA Cup competition, where they finished as runners-up—a first in the club’s history.
Governor Otti lauded the team for making both him and the state proud, emphasizing that their achievement of reaching the finals was a victory in itself. “I was very pleased as I watched you inch to the finals. As far as I was concerned, when you got to the finals, you had won,” the governor stated. He expressed confidence that the team would lift the trophy in future competitions.
Acknowledging the players’ efforts, Governor Otti assured them of continuous support from his administration to achieve even greater heights, drawing parallels with renowned footballers like Jay Jay Okocha and Cristiano Ronaldo. He announced a state government donation of N30 million to the team and personally gifted them N5 million through the Alex Otti Foundation. Additional contributions came from notable figures including former Chief of Army Staff Lt. General Azubuike Ihejirika, who donated N10 million, Senator Darlington Nwaokocha with N5 million, and Engineer Chinedu Onyeizu who contributed N2.5 million.
The governor also addressed logistical needs, promising to provide a coaster bus for the team and to address other requests from the club management as resources allow.
The reception was attended by key state officials, including Secretary to the State Government Prof. Kenneth Kalu, Commissioner for Sports Sir Nwaobilor Nwadimma Ananaba, and others, showcasing a strong support system for the club’s future endeavors.
