*Vows to sustain club, targets trophy, global spotlight
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has rewarded each player of Abakaliki FC with N1 million following their impressive second-place finish in the 2025 President Federation Cup.
The team, numbering over 36, was received at Government House, Abakaliki, led by Club Chairman Senator Obinna Ogba and the State Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Prince Richard Idike.
Abakaliki FC narrowly lost 4–3 on penalties to Kwara United in the final after a goalless regulation time at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, last Saturday.
Despite the heartbreak, the debutant club shocked Nigeria’s football scene with upset victories over top-tier sides including Enyimba, Nasarawa United, Katsina United, and Ikorodu City, earning a N20 million prize for reaching the final.
Governor Nwifuru also announced cash gifts to club officials, non-technical staff, the Supporters Club, and sports journalists who covered the team throughout the tournament.
He said: "N1 million each for all players and coaches, salaries cleared until November for existing players, N500,000 each for non-technical staff, N4 million to the supporters club and N1 million to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ebonyi chapter.
Commending the team’s exploits, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining the club and building a strong sports culture in Ebonyi.
“This team has made history. The future is bright. Ebonyi will continue to rise through sports. I was impressed with their physical and tactical discipline in the final match against Kwara United. I watched them live, and despite losing the trophy on penalties, they won the hearts of many," Nwifuru said.
He expressed optimism that the club would avoid relegation next season, clinch the Federation Cup title, and earn international recognition, having carved a remarkable niche in Nigerian football within just seven months of existence.
