The Ebonyi State Government has officially acquired a new professional football club, 10 years after the disbandment of the former Ebonyi Angels Football Club under the administration of ex-Governor Martin Elechi. The acquisition of this new team signals the state’s renewed commitment to football and youth development.
Prince Richard Idike, the State Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, made the announcement during a press briefing at the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium in Abakaliki. He confirmed that the state Executive Council has approved the purchase of Coal City Football Club, a National League team, now rebranded as Abakaliki Football Club.
Abakaliki FC Set for Upcoming Season
Prince Idike revealed that Abakaliki Football Club will participate in the upcoming football season, which is set to begin in just a few weeks. The club will return to the state with 15 players from the existing squad, and the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports is already working to sign a top-class coach and additional talented players to strengthen the team ahead of the new campaign.
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“Our primary goal is to gain promotion to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL),” said Idike, highlighting the club’s ambitious plans for the future. The Commissioner stressed that with proper preparation and player recruitment, Abakaliki FC is set to become a strong contender in the league.
Stadium Renovation Plans in Motion
In preparation for the team’s home games, emergency renovations of the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium have been approved. Prince Idike, accompanied by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports Development, Pius Nwankwo, Director of Sports Emmanuel Utobo, and the new Permanent Secretary Hillary Obiesie, assured that the stadium’s pitch would be upgraded to meet professional standards.
Governor’s Support Fuels Excitement
The Commissioner thanked Governor Francis Nwifuru for his unwavering support and goodwill in establishing the new football club. He pledged the total commitment of the Ministry and the Sports Council to ensuring the club’s success, expressing confidence that Abakaliki FC will soon become a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian football.
With the acquisition of Abakaliki Football Club, Ebonyi State is positioning itself to return to the national football scene, with hopes of producing top-tier talent and bringing pride to the state’s passionate football fans.
