Cross River State has secured the hosting rights for the 2026 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Championship, a milestone credited to the state government’s sustained investment in sports infrastructure under Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.
The Chairman of the Cross River State Sports Commission, Mr. Etta Lawrence Itanya, disclosed this during a meeting at the VIP Lounge of the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar. He commended Governor Otu for approving and releasing funds for the renovation of the State Box and the upgrade of key facilities at the stadium.
According to Itanya, the governor’s timely intervention was instrumental in securing the hosting rights for the championship, scheduled to hold from July 11 to 18, 2026.
Read also Cross River, UNICEF Review Budget Performance to Strengthen State Development Plan Implementation
He described the renovation of the State Box as a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to developing world-class sporting infrastructure capable of attracting national and international competitions.
“We sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his unwavering commitment to sports development. The approval and release of funds for the renovation of the State Box and the ongoing improvements at the U.J. Esuene Stadium reflect the priority this administration places on sports as a catalyst for youth empowerment, economic growth, and social inclusion,” Itanya said.
He explained that the renovation would feature modern seating, air-conditioning systems, television facilities, upgraded restrooms, and enhanced security access to improve the experience of dignitaries, sports enthusiasts, and visitors.
The Sports Commission chairman added that the ongoing improvements to the stadium, including work on the playing pitch, were key factors that convinced the Nigeria Women Football League to award the hosting rights to Cross River State.
Describing the achievement as a major milestone, Itanya said it aligns with Governor Otu’s vision of positioning Calabar as a premier destination for sports tourism and sporting excellence in Nigeria. He noted that preparations were already in top gear to ensure participating teams, officials, and supporters enjoy the hospitality for which Cross River is renowned.
He further stated that the championship is expected to stimulate economic activities, create opportunities for local businesses, and showcase the state’s capacity to successfully host major sporting events.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Pelican Stars Football Club, Mrs. Sefia Francis Aribiah, praised Governor Otu for his unwavering support for sports development, noting that his investments continue to create opportunities for athletes and sports administrators across the state.
She also commended the Chairman of the Cross River State Sports Commission for his leadership and dedication, which she said played a significant role in securing the hosting rights for the championship.
The 2026 Nigeria Women Football League Championship will be held at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar, with top women’s football clubs from across the country expected to participate in the week-long tournament.
The meeting was attended by the management and staff of Pelican Stars Football Club, alongside officials of the Cross River State Sports Commission.
