Federation Cup: Gov Nwifuru of Ebonyi Awards N1 Million Each to Abakaliki FC Players, Others

Abakaliki FC in a group picture with the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru.

By Nabob Ogbonna, Abakaliki

The Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, has rewarded each player of Abakaliki FC with N1 million following their impressive second-place finish in the 2025 President’s Federation Cup.

The team, comprising over 36 players and crew members, was warmly received at the Government House in Abakaliki, the state capital. 

Leading the delegation were the Club Manager, Senator Obinna Ogba, and the State Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Prince Richard Idike.

Abakaliki FC narrowly lost 4–3 on penalties to Kwara United in the final, after a goalless draw in regulation time at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, last Saturday.

Prior to their loss in the final, the seven-month-old club had taken the Nigerian football scene by storm with stunning victories over top-tier teams such as Enyimba, Nasarawa United, Katsina United, and Ikorodu City to secure their place in the final.

In addition to the players, Governor Nwifuru announced cash rewards for club officials, non-technical staff, the Supporters Club, and sports journalists who covered the team throughout the tournament.

According to the governor, “Each player and coach will receive N1 million. Salaries will be cleared up to November for current players. Non-technical staff will receive N500,000 each, the Supporters Club will be awarded N4 million, and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ebonyi chapter, will receive N1 million.”

While commending the team’s efforts, Nwifuru reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining the club and fostering a strong sports culture in Ebonyi State.

“This team has made history. The future is bright. Ebonyi will continue to rise through sports. I was impressed with their physical and tactical discipline in the final match against Kwara United. I watched them live, and despite losing the trophy on penalties, they won the hearts of many,” he said.

Expressing optimism about the club’s future, the governor predicted that Abakaliki FC would avoid relegation next season, claim the Federation Cup title, and gain international recognition.