The Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA) has successfully conducted its by-elections to fill four vacant positions on its executive board, further strengthening the administrative structure of football in the state.

 

The by-elections were held on Thursday, 15 January 2026, at the East End Hotel, Awka, and were widely described as peaceful, transparent, and well-organized. Football stakeholders from across the state participated in the process, which concluded with the emergence of four new board members.

 

From the Anambra South Senatorial Zone, three prominent football stakeholders were elected. They include renowned football administrator and coach, Coach Donatus Ezeokafor; Prince Michael Mbaezue, proprietor of Jimbaz FC; and Pastor Ijeoma Nwosu, a retired FIFA-badged referee whose experience spans several years at both national and international levels.

 

Also elected into the ANSFA board is Mr. Johnson Ifejika, former President-General of Omor Community, who represents the Anambra North Senatorial Zone. His election adds administrative and community leadership experience to the board.

 

The smooth conduct of the exercise was hailed by participants as a reflection of ANSFA’s commitment to due process and good governance in football administration.

 

Administering the oath of office to the newly elected members, the Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association Electoral Committee, Barr. Prince Uche Darlington Okeke, PhD, charged them to discharge their duties with integrity, dedication, and a shared sense of purpose.

 

Barr. Okeke urged the new board members to work harmoniously with existing members of the board, emphasizing that unity and collaboration are essential for the growth and development of football in Anambra State. He stressed the importance of initiating and supporting grassroots and developmental programs that will help identify and nurture young talents across the state.

 

The addition of the four new members is expected to inject fresh ideas, experience, and renewed energy into the ANSFA board as it continues its mission to reposition Anambra football and create more opportunities for players, coaches, referees, and administrators.

 

With the successful conclusion of the by-elections, ANSFA now looks ahead to consolidating its plans and programs aimed at taking football in the state to greater heights.