The Kelechi Anosike Foundation Abia Champions League, sponsored by the Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Abia State for the 2027 election, Dr Kelechi Anosike, has kicked off with a 1-1 draw between Umuahia North and Umuahia South.

The opening match of the inter-local government football tournament was held on Sunday at Williams Memorial Secondary School, Afugiri Ohuhu, in Umuahia North Local Government Area.

Umuahia South took an early lead after scoring within the opening two minutes of the encounter. However, Umuahia North, despite dominating possession for much of the game, equalised in the final two minutes of added time.

Speaking with journalists after performing the ceremonial kick-off, Anosike described the competition as an opportunity to discover and develop football talents across the state.

“For me, it is a very interesting and engaging football competition. It is the first of its kind and we have seen stars,” he said.

He explained that the tournament brings together the 17 local government areas under one competition, with the ultimate goal of producing one champion.

According to him, the competition had already produced players whose talents could be further developed.

The tournament is divided into four groups involving the 17 LGAs, with organisers targeting outstanding players for further development.

Anosike said the competition was part of his broader plan to establish a Sports and Football Academy in Abia if elected governor in 2027.

He explained that the proposed academy would provide structured training, mentorship and exposure for young footballers and other athletes, creating opportunities for them to progress from grassroots football to professional and international levels.

The PDP candidate also said sports could play a major role in youth development by keeping young people engaged and productive, reducing restiveness and helping position Abia as a major sports hub in the South-East.

He commended the players who featured in the opening match and promised that subsequent games would attract greater attention, with scouts and coaches expected to monitor the performances of promising players.

Community leaders, dignitaries and football enthusiasts attended the opening ceremony, with organisers describing the competition as an annual event aimed at promoting unity among Abia's 17 local government areas through sports.

The KAF Abia Champions League is expected to run for several weeks before culminating in a grand finale to determine the overall champion of the competition.