Uyo Is the Home of Football in Nigeria – Akwa Ibom FA Chairman, Samuel Umoh

The Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Mr. Samuel Umoh, has reaffirmed Uyo’s status as the home of football in Nigeria, declaring the state fully prepared and eager to host more local and international football matches.

Speaking in Morocco on the sidelines of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Umoh disclosed that the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, in collaboration with the State Sports Council, has put in place the necessary infrastructure and administrative frameworks required to host high-profile football events.

“Uyo remains the tourist centre of Nigerian football,” Umoh said.

“We have successfully hosted several international matches, including the CAF Super Cup between RS Berkane and Orlando Pirates. This is also the home of the Super Eagles because the team enjoys a very serene and professional environment here in Uyo.”

He noted that Akwa Ibom State deserves commendation for its consistent investment in football development and match-hosting excellence, adding that the state is keen to host more domestic competitions.

“We are interested in hosting the Federation Cup final if the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) deems it fit to grant us the hosting rights. We have the facilities, the experience, and the organisational capacity to deliver a world-class event,” he stated.

Looking ahead, Umoh revealed that grassroots development remains a major focus of the Akwa Ibom FA, with ambitious plans already mapped out for 2026.

“Our target in 2026 is to intensify grassroots football programmes and upgrade the knowledge base of our coaches. The grassroots is the conveyor belt of football development, and since we came on board, there has been a massive increase in grassroots football activities, with more academies being established across the state,” he explained.

The Akwa Ibom FA chairman also commended Morocco for the impressive infrastructure on display at the AFCON, describing the host nation as a model for African sports development.

“It is a thing of joy that an African country can put in place infrastructure of this standard.

Morocco is a model for Africa. The facilities here are outstanding, and you can clearly see a sports renaissance taking place,” Umoh said.

He expressed confidence that with sustained investment and strategic planning, Nigeria—and Akwa Ibom State in particular—can continue to strengthen its position as a leading football hub on the continent.