The Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA), Chikelue Iloenyosi, has reaffirmed his commitment to repositioning football in Anambra State, declaring that the association is firmly back on the path of growth, unity and grassroots development.
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Speaking at the ANSFA Congress held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the East End Hotel, Awka, Iloenyosi praised football stakeholders across the state for the successful conduct of the Local Football Council elections and by-elections in January, describing the process as a major step toward stability and progress.
“Your dedication, passion and commitment to the growth of football in Anambra State are truly commendable,” Iloenyosi told delegates.
A major highlight of the congress was the chairman’s revelation that the Anambra State Football League has finally been revived after more than 30 years, a feat he described as historic and long overdue.
“Under my watch, we kick-started the Anambra State Football League — something that had not been achieved in three decades,” he said.
Iloenyosi also outlined several initiatives aimed at strengthening football at all levels, including the introduction of the All-Stars Football Competition to promote unity among football stakeholders, and a dedicated U-17 scouting programme that attracted former Golden Eaglets coach Manu Garba, giving young talents in the state national exposure.
According to the ANSFA chairman, coach education and referee development have remained central to the board’s agenda, with refresher courses organized to improve standards and ensure Anambra officials continue to feature prominently as match commissioners and referees in leagues such as the NPFL and NNL.
He, however, urged coaches and referees to fully regularize their affiliation with the association and avoid participating in unaffiliated competitions to prevent sanctions, while charging Local Football Councils to take greater responsibility for grassroots football development.
Iloenyosi also acknowledged the support of the Anambra State Government, led by Chukwuma Soludo, noting that the administration has created an enabling environment for sports to thrive.
“Football remains a key driver of sports development in Anambra State, and the support of the state government has been instrumental,” he said.
The ANSFA boss paid tribute to several football stakeholders and benefactors, including Ibrahim Musa Gusau, Mohammed Sanusi, and the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, while reserving special appreciation for Jim Martins Nwabueze for sponsoring the revived state league.
In his closing remarks, Iloenyosi called for unity and collective responsibility among all stakeholders.
“Together, we can take Anambra State football to greater heights,” he said. “Let us support our teams, our players and our officials.”
The congress ended on a note of optimism, with delegates expressing confidence that Anambra football has entered a new era of structure, opportunity and sustained growth under the current ANSFA leadership.
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