Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, says plans have reached an advanced stage for the construction of a new Umuahia Stadium City, a sports-focused development project expected to include modern sporting facilities, hospitality structures, and residential estates.
Otti disclosed this when he received Abia-born Super Eagles star, Samuel Chukwueze, who paid him a courtesy visit in Umuahia alongside friends to appreciate the Governor’s support during his mother’s burial.
The Governor said the state has already acquired land for the project and is currently at the feasibility stage, expressing confidence that construction would be flagged off before the end of the year.
“We are not just building a stadium; we are building a stadium city, like a sports village. There will be hotels, estates, and other attractions to develop that area,” Otti said.
He also used the opportunity to encourage Abia indigenes and investors to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the state, noting that priority would be given to local participation in development projects.
Governor Otti congratulated Chukwueze on his achievements in football, describing him as a worthy ambassador of Abia State, and assured him of the government’s continued support.
He further commiserated with the footballer over the death of his mother, urging him to remain strong and continue to identify with his roots despite the loss.
In his remarks, Samuel Chukwueze commended the Governor for what he described as visible transformation across Abia State, particularly improvements in road infrastructure and urban renewal in Umuahia.
“I have been seeing the good works the Governor is doing. When I came back, Umuahia was completely different. The roads have improved greatly,” Chukwueze said.
The AC Milan winger described the proposed stadium city project as a major investment in the future of sports development in the state, saying it would create opportunities for young athletes and position Abia as a sports destination.
He also expressed his intention to invest in sports development in Abia, noting his commitment to giving back to the community that shaped his career.
“I intend to invest in sports development for the youth. It is my hometown, and I cannot forget where I came from,” he added.
