Abia State Governor Alex Otti has revealed plans to commence construction of the proposed Umuahia Stadium City before the end of 2026, describing the project as a major step towards transforming the state into a sports and investment destination.
Otti disclosed this on Sunday while hosting Super Eagles and AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze at the Government House in Umuahia. The football star visited the governor to appreciate his support during the burial of his late mother.
According to the governor, land for the project has already been secured, while feasibility studies are ongoing.
He explained that the development would go beyond a conventional stadium, featuring hotels, residential estates and other commercial facilities designed to stimulate economic growth.
Otti also encouraged Abia indigenes to invest in the state, assuring them of government support.
Chukwueze commended the administration’s infrastructure drive, particularly improvements in road networks, and described the Stadium City initiative as a game-changing investment for sports development.
He further pledged to support youth sports programmes in Abia as part of efforts to give back to his community.
