By Chigozie Chukwuleta
Retired FIFA Referee, Pastor Ijeoma Nwosu and three other tested football stakeholders have joined the Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA) Board after a successful by-electtion which has brought the total membership of the board to nine.
Other elected members during the successful by-election which held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at the East End Hotel in Awka include Coach Donatus Ezeokafor, Prince Michael Mbaezue, and Mr. Johnson Ifejika.
The Electoral Committee Chairman, Barr. Prince Uche Okeke, administered the oath of office to the new members, urging them to work harmoniously with fellow board members to take Anambra football to greater heights. “Football is a team game, hence you should all work together to achieve success,” he said.
Chief Chikelue Iloenyosi, the Chief Priest in the temple of football in Anambra State, welcomed the new members, emphasizing his open-door administration. “Feel free to reach out to me on any issue at any time,” he said.
The Secretary of ANSFA, Mr Raphael Nweke, advised the new members to work with their Local Football Councils (LFCs) and chairmen of their Local Government Areas to initiate programs that would benefit football in the state.
Mr Nweke, emphasized the importance of collaboration and carrying the state FA along in their initiatives.
The by-election was observed by Omiete Edwin Tamuno, Secretary of the Rivers State Football Association, representing the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The election was described as credible, transparent, and successful by those in attendance.
The ANSFA board had been operating with five members since the four positions became vacant. The election of the new members has completed the board’s membership strength, positioning the association for greater success in promoting football in Anambra State.
Olisa Onuchukwu, a former Nigeria international, praised Iloenyosi’s leadership, describing him as a liberal-minded person. He warned the new members against gossiping and sycophancy, emphasizing the need for teamwork and dedication to advancing football in the state.
With the new members on board, ANSFA is expected to intensify its efforts to develop football in the state, leveraging their expertise and experience to drive success.
Highlights of the event include also the presentation of certificates of return to the new ANSFA Board members.
Election of Local Football Council Executives took place on Wednesday, 14th January, 2026
