The Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA) has lauded Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for his re-election victory and reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots football development following resolutions reached at its 2026 Annual General Assembly.

 

The Assembly, which held on Friday at the East End Hotel, Awka, congratulated His Excellency, Prof. Charles Soludo, CFR, on his recent second-term electoral victory and expressed appreciation for the inclusion of football activities in the Onwa Dezemba Yuletide celebrations, describing the initiative as a major boost to sports and youth engagement across the state.

 

In its communiqué, the Congress also paid glowing tribute to Chief Dr. Polycarp Emenike (Odenigbo Nanka), Chief Executive Officer of Neros Pharmaceuticals, for his unwavering sponsorship of the Neros Anambra State FA Cup for over 25 years. The Assembly further commended Chief Martin Nwabueze Akubudike N’umudioka for boldly taking up the sponsorship of the Anambra State Football League at a time when many had withdrawn support.

 

The Congress expressed appreciation to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), under the leadership of Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, for creating an enabling environment that continues to foster football growth and development nationwide.

 

Members also praised the leadership of the Anambra State Football Association for what they described as tremendous improvement in the game, particularly the renewed focus on grassroots football development across the state.

 

During the session, the Congress approved the Association’s proposed budget for the 2026 financial year as presented. It also confirmed a five-year suspension imposed on two individuals—Mr. Ikechukwu Leonard Igbokwe and Mr. Chijioke Onyedika—barring them from participating in football-related activities within Anambra State.

 

The Assembly called on well-meaning individuals and corporate organizations to increase investment in football infrastructure, development programs, and competitions to further strengthen the sport in the state.

 

At the conclusion of the meeting, a unanimous vote of confidence was passed on the leadership of the Anambra State Football Association, led by Chief Chikelue Iloenyosi, in recognition of what the Congress described as his exemplary stewardship and dedication to advancing football in Anambra State.