Anambra FA Boss Iloenyosi Dismisses Criticism, Highlights Landmark Achievements

By: Arinzechi Chukwunonso

Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA), Chikelue Iloenyosi has waved aside recent criticisms from banned football stakeholder Iyke Igbokwe describing them as “baseless distractions” that cannot derail the remarkable progress achieved in Anambra football over the last three years.

Iloenyosi, a former Super Eagles defender, made the remarks during the celebration of his third anniversary in office emphasizing that Igbokwe lacks the moral and legal grounds to speak on football matters in the state.

Reflecting on his tenure, Iloenyosi recalled inheriting a disorganized football system plagued by disunity, weak structures, and poor governance

“My first task was to restore order and ensure all affiliate bodies — from coaches to referees and club owners — worked under one united vision,” he said.

His leadership has since brought stability, transparency, and a renewed sense of purpose to the game in Anambra.

One of his landmark achievements was securing a dedicated budget for football through collaboration with Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, ensuring sustainable funding for development programs.

Since 2022, the FA has initiated or supported over 100 tournaments including the Anambra All-Stars Tournament, the NEROS FA Cup, and youth competitions at U-13, U-15, and U-17 levels.

The 2025 National U-17 Scouting Program in Awka, hosted in partnership with Coach Manu Garba uncovered fresh talents now attracting national attention.

Launched on October 8, 2022, the Anambra Grassroots Football Development Plan has provided over 1,000 children with football kits, underscoring Iloenyosi’s commitment to nurturing young talents.

After 20 years of inactivity, the state football league has been successfully revived, providing regular competitive action for local clubs.

Iloenyosi has gone beyond the pitch to support former players with medical aid and organized a statewide Requiem Mass to honor late players and coaches — a first in Anambra football history.

At least seven elite coaching courses have been held since 2022, boosting the technical capacity of local coaches.

The Awka City Stadium has also become a hub for top-tier matches, hosting Federation Cup games, NFF events, and even serving as a temporary home for Enugu Rangers

Women’s football in Anambra has grown under Iloenyosi’ administration from two active clubs in 2022 to eight in 2025. The FA has promoted gender equality by supporting the South East Women’s Tournament and introducing equal prize money for men and women in the FA Cup.

Under Iloenyosi’s leadership, more Anambra indigenes now serve as NFF Match Commissioners and hold key roles in Nigerian football administration.

His credibility was further cemented when NFF President Ibrahim Gusau selected Anambra as the venue for the 2023/24 New Year celebration

Iloenyosi has received over 20 awards including FA Chairman of the Year and Sports Administrator of the Year making him one of Nigeria’s most respected football reformers

As Iloenyosi marks his third year in office, he remains focused on building on the momentum.

“The journey has just begun. Anambra football is on the rise, and the whole country is watching,” he declared.