Iloenyosi applauds Soludo for revitalizing Anambra Sports
The Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA), Chikelue Iloenyosi, has lauded Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his visionary reforms and strategic revitalization of the state’s sports sector. In an
The Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA), Chikelue Iloenyosi, has lauded Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his visionary reforms and strategic revitalization of the state's sports sector.
In an official appreciation letter titled "Appreciation and Eulogy for Strategic Reform in the Anambra State Sports Sector," Iloenyosi praised the Governor’s decision to merge the Anambra State Sports Development Commission (ASSDC) with the Ministry of Youth Development. He noted that the appointment of Hon. Patrick Aghamba as Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development has restored administrative clarity and coordination to a sector previously plagued by challenges.
Iloenyosi recalled that prior to these interventions, sports in Anambra—particularly football—faced a significant decline due to administrative inefficiencies. He highlighted that access to public facilities, such as the Awka City Stadium, was once restricted by prohibitive costs that discouraged grassroots investment. This environment placed Anambra at a distinct disadvantage compared to neighbouring states like Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia, and Imo, where accessible rates encourage a thriving sports ecosystem.
A primary example of past friction involved Solution FC, an ANSFA affiliate since 2023. Iloenyosi revealed that the club nearly lost its Nigeria National League (NNL) slot due to a lack of cooperation from the former commission. The slot was only recovered from Jos through the direct intervention of the ANSFA Chairman.
The Chairman emphasized that Governor Soludo’s recent reforms have begun to correct these imbalances and rebuild confidence among stakeholders. By restructuring the system and placing it under purposeful leadership, the Governor has demonstrated a genuine commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development. Iloenyosi further commended Commissioner Aghamba for fostering collaboration between the ministry and various sports bodies. He concluded by noting a renewed sense of optimism within the community and reaffirmed ANSFA's unwavering support in bringing the Governor's vision for sporting excellence to fruition.
