Abia State has rolled out the maiden edition of its grassroots football league, designed to uncover hidden talent that could follow in the footsteps of Nwankwo Kanu and Samuel Chukwueze – www.isagoal.com reports.
According to This Day, the competition named Abia Soccer Fest (ASF) will begin on August 23 and feature matches across all 184 wards before advancing to local government levels.
Winners from the zonal draws will progress to the state finals, where the ultimate champion will be crowned in front of fans and scouts.
Speaking in Umuahia, Ambassador Eric Asomugha, vice-chairman of the Local Organising Committee, confirmed preparations were complete for the event.
“We want to discover talents and create employment. We want to discover more Nwankwo Kanu and Samuel Chukwueze,” Asomugha said.
He emphasized that local and international scouts will be on ground to track standout performers and give them opportunities.
The Abia State government, under Governor Alex Otti, is backing the project to promote youth development not just in football but across other sports.
ASF is jointly organized by the Ministry of Sports and Youth Development alongside the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
This article was updated 14 minutes ago