The stage is set for the biggest grassroots football spectacle in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State as the Abig Nwankwo Foundation Okija Annual Unity Football Tournament returns for its highly anticipated fourth edition.
The tournament, founded by Chief Chimezie Ken Nwankwo (Owelle N’Okija, Ichie Ozoabatauno Adimma), Chairman of Bigly Group and Founder of the Abig Nwankwo Foundation, has become a flagship initiative for promoting unity, peace and youth development in Okija and across Anambra State.
This year’s competition will feature all nine villages of Okija in what promises to be a fiercely contested battle for supremacy, local pride and bragging rights.
Abig Nwankwo Foundation Tournament Set for December Kick-off
According to the Local Organising Committee (LOC), the tournament will kick off in the first week of December 2026, with matches running throughout the Yuletide season. The grand finale is scheduled for Wednesday, 7 January 2027.
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All matches will be played at the historic Okija Central School Pitch (St Mary’s Pitch, Umuofo Okija).
Abig Nwankwo Foundation Tournament Unveils Record ₦5m Prize
In a major boost for grassroots football in Anambra State, the Foundation has announced a significantly improved prize package for this edition.
The champions will receive ₦5,000,000 and gold medals, while the runners-up will earn ₦3,000,000 and silver medals. The third-placed team will take home ₦2,000,000 and bronze medals.
No team will leave empty-handed, as the remaining six participating villages will each receive a ₦200,000 consolation prize.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, sponsor Chief Chimezie Ken Nwankwo said his vision extends far beyond football.
“This tournament is not just about football; it is about unity and giving our young people a sense of belonging. We are doing this to give budding football talents in Okija the opportunity to express themselves, to be discovered and to stay away from social vices. Okija is one big family, and football remains a powerful tool to bind us together,” the Owelle N’Okija said.
Abig Nwankwo Foundation Tournament to Blend Football with Culture
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Uwaoma Odili Iheabunike (Ijele-Igbo N’Okija), assured residents and supporters that preparations are on course for a memorable competition.
“We are fully ready. I want to thank Owelle N’Okija, Chief Chimezie Ken Nwankwo, for his uncommon love for Okija. This fourth edition will be bigger, more entertaining and more unifying. We promise a fair, transparent and memorable tournament for all nine participating villages. Okija is one family. Football is our bond.”
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The LOC further disclosed that both the opening ceremony and the grand finale will take on a carnival atmosphere, attracting dignitaries from across Anambra State and beyond, including traditional rulers, political leaders, captains of industry and football stakeholders.
The celebrations will also feature top musical performances and colourful cultural displays.
A Legacy of Unity and Community Empowerment
Over the past three editions, the Abig Nwankwo Foundation has established itself as a beacon of hope by empowering widows, youths and students in Okija and beyond. Organisers believe the fourth edition will raise the bar even higher.
Ubahu Village won the 2025 edition after defeating Ubahumonum with a dramatic extra-time goal in the final, while Umuhu Village finished third. The champions received ₦3 million in prize money that year.
This time around, the stakes are higher, the prize money is bigger, and the drive for unity is stronger.
