Arrangements have been concluded for the maiden edition of the Umunneochi Divisional Football League, a grassroots football initiative aimed at unearthing and nurturing young talent from across Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State.
The league, proudly sponsored by Mr. Obi Chibunna Emmanuel, Chairman of the Umunneochi Divisional Football Association and President of Nneato Warriors Football Academy, is expected to bring together all the football clubs within the LGA in a home-and-away format.
The much anticipated tournament is set to kick off on September 27, 2025, at the historic Ebelebe Field, Nneato, as the competition promises to be a celebration of talent, community spirit, and opportunity for young talents.
According to the organizers, the league is not just a competition, but a platform to discover and promote young footballers, giving them visibility before scouts, agents, and professional clubs.
Vice Chairman of the Association and Grassroots coach , Onyemaechi Michael Eze expressed optimism about the success of the league, citing the abundance of raw football talent in the region.
โThis land has produced stars like Frank Onyeka, who now plays in the English Premier League for Brentford. We believe many more talents are waiting to be discovered here,โ Eze said.
Several clubs, including Bohold FC, Nneato Warriors, and Perfect Solution SC, have already completed registration while more teams such as Emperor Leru FA, Golden Boot FA, RealCity FA Lokpaukwu, Sporters United Ngodo, and Young Boys FC Umuaku are expected to join before the deadline.
The Sponsor of the competition, Obi Chibunna, who is described by many as a man of vision, has expressed his commitment towards ensuring that LGA-based clubs are actively involved in talent development programs.
His initiative is already attracting support from multiple sponsors who are partnering with the local organizing committee to provide resources and ensure the leagueโs success.
โWe want to use this platform to showcase our young players to agents, scouts, and coaches looking for fresh talent. This is about giving them a chance,โ Obi said.
Sports enthusiasts believes that the Umunneochi Divisional Football League marks a new era for football development in Abia State, as all eyes will be on Ebelebe Field Nneato this September for the clash .