Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has announced plans to begin construction of a new stadium in Umuahia soon, which will also include a full sports complex and other facilities.
The Governor made this known when he received Abia-born Super Eagles player Samuel Chukwueze and some of his friends at the Government House. Chukwueze visited to thank the Governor for his support at his mother’s burial.
Governor Otti said the government has already secured land for the Umuahia Stadium City project. He said he is currently working on the design and planning stage. He explained that the project will go beyond a stadium, including a sports village with hotels. Other facilities include residential areas and other facilities to attract development.
He added that the state wants indigenes and investors to take part in the project. Otti pointed to the benefits of the opportunities it will create. He also assured that Abia athletes and public figures will continue to receive government support.
Otti also expressed sympathy to Chukwueze over the death of his mother. He encouraged him to stay strong and continue to represent Abia State positively.
Chukwueze, in his response, thanked the Governor for his support. He said he was impressed by the level of development he had seen in Abia State. The football star noted that the improvement in roads and other infrastructure in Umuahia shows clear progress compared to the past.
Chukwueze described the planned stadium city as a good step for sports development. He said it will help young talents in the state. The fulham forward also expressed his desire to invest in sports development in Abia. He says he wants to give back to the place where he grew up.
He added that he remains proud of his hometown and will continue to support its growth. The Super Eagles Attacker and Fulham forward is a celebrated football star. He is one of the homegrown products of Abia State’s grassroots football system.
