Abia State governor Alex Otti, on Sunday hosted Samuel Chukwueze in Umuahia, where he announced plans to commence construction of the proposed Umuahia Stadium City before the end of the year.
Mr Chukwueze, a Super Eagles winger and Abia-born international footballer, visited the governor alongside friends to express appreciation for Mr Otti’s support and presence during the burial of his late mother.
Speaking during the visit, Mr Otti revealed that land for the project had already been acquired and that the government was currently conducting feasibility studies ahead of construction.
“I’m sure before the end of the year, we will flag off the construction of the new Umuahia Stadium.
“The land is already acquired, and we are at the feasibility stage. 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 corridor,” Mr Otti said.
Otti encourages investment in Abia
The governor also called on indigenes of the state to take advantage of investment opportunities in Abia, assuring them that priority consideration would be given to local investors.
“We would like our people to come and invest here. Pick whatever is of interest to you, and we will give priority to our people,” he added.
Mr Otti commended Mr Chukwueze for his achievements in football and for representing Abia positively on the global stage.
“Let me also congratulate you on your achievements and for representing the state very well.
“We can assure you of our support. If there are things that we can do, just let us know. We like to support our own wherever they are,” the governor stated.
He also condoled with the footballer over the passing of his mother, describing the loss as painful and encouraging him to remain strong.
Chukwueze praises development in Abia
Responding, Mr Chukwueze praised the governor’s developmental efforts, particularly improvements in infrastructure across the state.
“I have been seeing the good work the governor is doing. When I came back and saw Umuahia, it was completely different.
“The roads have improved greatly, and the transformation is visible. He deserves every accolade for the good work he has been doing,” he said.
The AC Milan winger described the proposed Stadium City as a major boost for sports development in Abia and an opportunity for young talents to thrive.
Football star pledges support for youth sports
Mr Chukwueze also pledged to contribute to sports development in the state, revealing that he was already working on plans to support young people through sporting initiatives.
“I intend to invest in sports development for the youth, and I am already working on it gradually, step by step.
“It is my hometown and where I grew up. It made me who I am today, and I cannot forget where I came from,” he said.
The proposed Stadium City project is expected to combine sports infrastructure with commercial and residential development as part of broader efforts to reposition Abia as a hub for investment and youth empowerment.
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