Nigeria Leagues
Dr Robert Onyeani explains why he brought 2025 NWFL Championship to Abiriba
By Samuel Ahmadu
Dr. Robert Daniel Onyeani, popularly known as Roco, has revealed that his decision to host the 2025 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Championship in Abiriba and Umuahia, Abia State, was driven by personal conviction, a desire to honour his late mother, and a commitment to grassroots football development.
The Abiriba-born businessman, philanthropist, and chairman of Ahudiyannem Football Club said he considered the hosting rights a divine opportunity and a tribute to his mother, who passed away in 2013.
“I would give glory to God Almighty for this great opportunity. To be honest, I am very happy to host the NWFL Championship in Abiriba, my hometown,” Onyeani told NigeriaFootball.ng.
“I decided to do this because of my mother, who I lost in 2013. I named the club Ahudiyannem Football Club for the male and Ahudiyannem Queens for the female in her honour,” he said.
According to him, the tournament presented a rare platform to unite Abians, spread peace, and showcase Abiriba to the rest of Nigeria.
“You see the crowd at the stadium happy. About 17 teams from different states came to Abiriba and Umuahia. It was a great opportunity to honour my mother and also to preach peace to Abians, Abiriba, and Nigerians,” he added.
Onyeani, who once served with Bayelsa United and Bayelsa Queens before venturing fully into business in 2007, disclosed that he returned to football three years ago as part of his mission to give back to society.
Within a short period, both Ahudiyannem men’s and women’s teams have won the Abia State FA Cup.
“When you are doing something without results, it is painful. My target from the beginning has been to play in the top flight and eventually compete in Africa.
“Ahudiyannem is for my mother, who made me love God 100 percent. Today, the women are heading to the Premiership, and we are preparing ourselves for what is before us,” he stated.
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The philanthropist expressed optimism about the future of women’s football in Nigeria and Africa, stressing the need for corporate organizations to support the NWFL.
“I don’t know why we have big corporate companies, and none are ready to identify with the NWFL. In Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire, the women’s league has sponsors. It is disturbing. Corporate bodies must come out if we want football to grow,” Onyeani warned.
Beyond football, Onyeani is also investing in infrastructure and talent development as he revealed that an academy and improved stadium facilities are part of his immediate plans.
“Next year, we will see a different pitch and stadium. Hopefully, within 12 months, the academy will be ready. Once our players start getting exposed to the world, people will ask where they are coming from, and the answer will be Ahudiyannem Queens of Abiriba,” he said.
