The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has praised Abakaliki FC for their impressive run to the final of the 2025 President’s FA Cup, describing the team’s journey as one of the standout stories of the tournament.
Despite suffering relegation to the Nationwide League One (NLO), Abakaliki FC have defied expectations by eliminating top-tier teams including Katsina United, Enyimba International, and Ikorodu City. They are now set to face Kwara United in what promises to be a gripping finale at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos.
Alhaji Gusau expressed admiration for the underdog side, highlighting the strength and quality present in Nigeria’s lower leagues.
“Abakaliki FC’s presence in the final is a testament to the competitiveness of the Nigerian National League (NNL),” he said. “Their journey showcases the resilience and talent in our football system, particularly among the teams outside the top flight.”
He also recalled the recent triumph of El-Kanemi Warriors, who lifted the trophy from the NNL in the last edition, and said Abakaliki FC could follow suit.
“This isn’t the first time an NNL club has reached the final. El-Kanemi Warriors won it last year. The NNL is proving itself to be a highly competitive league where anything can happen,” Gusau added.
The NFF president reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to fairness and neutrality, assuring that the final will be contested on merit.
“We have no favourites. The FA Cup is Nigeria’s oldest football competition and part of its charm is its unpredictability. We want a final that’s full of passion, fair play, and top-quality football.”
With anticipation building across the country, the NFF has confirmed that all logistical and security arrangements are in place to ensure a safe and successful event.
The final match between Kwara United and Abakaliki FC will take place later this week, with fans hoping to witness another chapter in the rich history of the FA Cup.
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