The Abia State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Nwaobilor Ananaba, has paid an unscheduled visit to the players and officials of Abia Comets FC in a bid to boost the team’s morale and confidence amid their struggles in the ongoing Nigeria National League (NNL) season.

The commissioner visited the team during their training session at Holy Ghost College, Olokoro, on Tuesday, explaining that the purpose of the visit was to identify and assess the challenges confronting the club in the 2025/26 campaign.

During his interaction with the team, Ananaba expressed disappointment with the club’s current position on the league table but urged the management, coaches and players to intensify their efforts and finish the season strongly.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Abia State Government under the leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti to the development of sports in the state.

According to him, the government remains determined to support state-owned teams to ensure they compete effectively across various sporting competitions.

“The Abia State government under the visionary leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti is committed to the growth and development of sports. Abia Comets is not left out of his plans,” Ananaba said.

“As a government, we remain committed to ensuring the success of state-owned teams for effective representation across all cadres, not just in football but sports in general. That is why we are fully committed to providing the necessary support for optimal service delivery.

“The message from the Governor is simple: Abia Comets must rise to the occasion and compete for honours starting with your next home and away matches. I want to reassure you that your welfare remains our topmost priority.”

Responding on behalf of the club’s chairman, Chief Boniface Alozie, the club’s secretary, Hyacinth Ezindu, commended the commissioner for visiting the team during what he described as a difficult period for the club.

He assured that the team would do everything possible to return to winning ways beginning with their next league fixture.

In their separate remarks, team captain Ogoke Kingsley, alongside Bright Ogbonna and Maduka Okechukwu, appreciated the commissioner for the timely visit but also highlighted some of the challenges facing the players, particularly poor remuneration and welfare packages.

They, however, reassured the state government of their determination to defend the club’s badge and secure maximum points in the remaining matches of the season.

After listening to their concerns, the commissioner announced a performance-based incentive aimed at motivating the players to avoid relegation.

He promised the team a reward of ₦500,000 for every home victory and ₦1 million for any away win for the remainder of the campaign.

Currently sitting ninth on the table and within the relegation zone, Abia Comets will face Gateway FC in a crucial Southern Conference A Matchday 14 encounter this Saturday at the Enyimba International Stadium.