Alex Otti announces Umuahia Stadium City project during Samuel Chukwueze visit, promising sports and infrastructure development in Abia State

Abia State Governor Alex Otti on Sunday hosted Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze in Umuahia, where he announced plans to begin construction of the proposed Umuahia Stadium City before the end of the year.

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The meeting took place at the Government House, Umuahia, during a courtesy visit by the Abia-born international footballer, who was accompanied by friends and associates.

Chukwueze visited the governor to express appreciation for his support and presence during the burial of his late mother.

During the visit, Governor Otti disclosed that land for the project had already been secured, adding that the initiative was currently at the feasibility stage.

He expressed optimism that construction would commence before the end of the year, describing the project as a transformative investment in sports infrastructure.

“I’m sure before the end of the year, we will flag off the construction of the new Umuahia Stadium,” Otti said.

According to him, the planned development goes beyond a stadium and will function as a full sports city designed to drive economic and social growth.

“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,” he said.

Otti added that the facility would include hotels, estates and other supporting infrastructure aimed at developing the surrounding corridor.

He also encouraged indigenes of Abia State to take advantage of emerging investment opportunities, assuring that local investors would be prioritised.

“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.

The governor commended Chukwueze for his achievements in professional football and for serving as a positive ambassador of Abia State on the global stage.

He also reaffirmed government support for the footballer and other indigenes excelling abroad.

Responding, Chukwueze praised the administration’s developmental efforts, noting visible improvements in infrastructure across Umuahia, particularly road networks.

The AC Milan winger described the proposed Umuahia Stadium City project as a forward-looking investment that would nurture young talent and strengthen sports development in the state.

He also pledged to contribute to youth and sports development initiatives in Abia, expressing commitment to giving back to the community that shaped his early career.

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“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.