The Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA) will on Saturday, 1 August, organise a novelty football match in memory of its former chairman, the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. The match, which will take place at the FC Ifeanyi Ubah Stadium on Ozubulu Road, Nnewi, is part of activities marking the second anniversary of the senator's passing on 27 July 2024.
According to the Chairman of the ANSFA Media Committee, Ralph Chidozie George, all arrangements have been concluded for the memorial fixture. He said the match is intended to honour Ubah's enduring contributions to football development in Anambra State and Nigeria, and to reflect on the remarkable achievements he recorded during his time as football administrator.
A Four-Year Legacy in Football Administration
The late Senator Ubah, popularly known as 'Ebubechukwu Uzo', served as Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association from 2016 to 2020. Those four years are widely regarded as a period of significant progress for football development in the state. One of his most notable initiatives was the 'One Family, One Footballer' programme, a grassroots football development scheme designed to discover and nurture young talents across Anambra State.
The initiative, which was first launched in Nigeria, later gained international recognition when it was showcased during the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. FIFA President Gianni Infantino was in attendance, underscoring the importance of the programme on the global football stage.
By taking the message of grassroots football development to a world audience, Ubah demonstrated his commitment to unearthing talent from the grassroots level and providing opportunities for young Nigerians to make a career in football.
Landmark Partnership with West Ham United
Ubah's influence extended beyond administration and grassroots development. In August 2016, he secured a landmark partnership between his club, FC Ifeanyi Ubah, and English Premier League side West Ham United F.C. At the time, he described the agreement as a major step towards transforming his club, Nigerian football and the African game.
The partnership was seen as a significant milestone for club football in Nigeria, opening doors for technical exchange, youth development, and international exposure for players from the Nnewi-based club.
2016 Federation Cup Triumph and CAF Qualification
Under his leadership, FC Ifeanyi Ubah also tasted success on the pitch. The club won the 2016 President Federation Cup after defeating Nasarawa United 5-4 on penalties in a dramatic final at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos.
That triumph earned FC Ifeanyi Ubah the coveted ticket to represent Nigeria in the 2017 CAF Confederation Cup, a remarkable achievement that further cemented the club's place in Nigerian football history.
Honouring a Departed Football Icon
Senator Ifeanyi Ubah passed away on 27 July 2024, after a life that combined business, politics, and sports administration. His death marked the end of an era for many football fans in Anambra State and beyond.
To commemorate the second anniversary of his death, the Chikelue Iloenyosi-led Anambra State Football Association has finalised plans for the novelty match at the FC Ifeanyi Ubah Stadium. Organisers say the event will celebrate Ubah's enduring contributions to football development in Anambra State and Nigeria, and serve as a moment for the football community to come together in his memory.
Key details of the memorial match include:
- Date: Saturday, 1 August, marking the anniversary period of Ubah's passing.
- Venue: FC Ifeanyi Ubah Stadium, Ozubulu Road, Nnewi, a facility associated with the late senator's club.
- Organisers: The Chikelue Iloenyosi-led Anambra State Football Association.
- Purpose: To honour and celebrate the life and legacy of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in the world of football.
The novelty match is expected to bring together former teammates, football administrators, supporters, and community leaders, all united in their appreciation for a man who gave so much to the beautiful game in Nigeria. As the second anniversary of his passing draws near, the event serves as a fitting tribute to a visionary whose impact on Anambra football continues to be felt.
