2025 President Federation Cup: NFF President Gusau Hails Abakaliki FC’s Inspiring Journey

Posted : 26 June 2025

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has commended Abakaliki FC for their outstanding journey to the final of the 2025 President Federation Cup, describing their story as one of the most inspirational of the tournament.

Despite being recently relegated to the Nationwide League One (NLO), Abakaliki FC shocked the football community by eliminating top-tier sides such as Katsina United, Enyimba International, and Ikorodu City to secure their place in the final.

The team will now face Kwara United in what is shaping up to be a thrilling encounter at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

“In the history of the FA Cup, NNL clubs have proven their worth, and Abakaliki FC’s presence in this year’s final is a testament to their quality,” said Gusau. “Their journey highlights how competitive our lower divisions have become.”

Alhaji Gusau emphasized that moments like this are what make the FA Cup the most exciting and unpredictable competition in Nigerian football. He pointed to the 2024 success of El-Kanemi Warriors, an NNL side that went on to win the tournament, as a similar example of the growing strength in Nigeria’s lower leagues.

“This is not the first time we are seeing a club from the NNL in the final. El-Kanemi Warriors were there last time and won it. The NNL is a very competitive league, and anything can happen,” he added.

Despite their relegation, Abakaliki FC have shown resilience, determination, and tactical discipline throughout the competition. Many fans and analysts believe they could replicate El-Kanemi’s feat and lift the historic trophy.

The NFF President expressed confidence that the final will deliver top-quality football, and reassured Nigerians of the Federation’s neutral stance in the competition.

“We don’t have a preference for any team, and we’re not influencing the outcome. The beauty of the FA Cup, which is our longest and oldest football challenge, lies in its unpredictability,” Gusau stated.

With the final set for later this week, excitement is rising across the country as football fans eagerly await what could be another fairy-tale ending for a second consecutive NNL team.

The NFF has also assured that logistics, security, and event coordination are all in place to ensure a successful, safe, and memorable conclusion to the 77th edition of Nigeria’s most prestigious domestic football competition.

2025 President Federation Cup: NFF President Gusau Hails Abakaliki FC’s Inspiring Journey

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has commended Abakaliki FC for their outstanding journey to the final of the 2025 President Federation Cup, describing their story as one of the most inspirational of the tournament.

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