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.
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. Also Read: Play More Football Foundation Urges Nigerian Government to Prioritize Grassroots Football Development All matches will be played at the historic Okija Central School Pitch (St Mary’s Pitch, Umuofo Okija).
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.