Imo Striker Queens Dump Imo FA, Switch Allegiance to Anambra FA Ahead of NWFL Championship

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

In a surprising twist that has stirred conversation within the Nigerian women’s football community, Imo Striker Queens have officially severed ties with the Imo State Football Association (FA) and relocated their operations to Awka, Anambra State.

The move comes as the club intensifies preparations for the upcoming Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Championship, aiming for promotion to the top-flight NWFL Premiership — a feat that could see Anambra State gain a premier women’s team for the first time.

This development marks the second high-profile departure of a female football club from Imo State in recent times. Earlier this year, First Mahi Babes FC of Abajah also decamped, aligning with Ebonyi State FA. They went on to clinch the 2025 Ebonyi FA Cup and made a commendable run to the Round of 16 in the national competition before bowing out to Rivers Angels.

The reasons behind Imo Striker Queens’ defection remain unclear, but the pattern has triggered concern among stakeholders and fans in Imo State. Speculation suggests friction with the Imo FA may be contributing to the exodus, especially as the state’s only NWFL Premiership team is currently embroiled in unresolved issues with the association.

Speaking to InfoNews, club president Prince Chidi confirmed the switch and emphasized the team’s readiness to represent Anambra State going forward.

“We have concluded all necessary arrangements with the Anambra FA,” Prince Chidi stated. “We will be prosecuting our NWFL Championship campaign from Awka, and we aim to gain promotion — not just for ourselves, but to bring top-tier female football to Anambra.”

He refrained from divulging the reasons for the move but hinted that the decision was essential for the club’s development and progress.

The leadership of the Anambra FA, under Chairman Chikelue Iloenyosi, popularly known as “General”, has reportedly welcomed the club with open arms and pledged full support in their quest for promotion.

As questions continue to mount over the mass departure of top female teams from Imo, stakeholders are calling for introspection and accountability from the Imo FA. For many Imolites, the central question remains: Why are clubs leaving — and what does this say about the current state of women’s football in Imo?