By Aderonke Ojo
Usman Ilerika, Secretary of Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCT FA ), on Wednesday expressed optimism about the future of the league, citing ongoing renovation work at the venues in Abuja.
Ilerika said that with these developments, the FCT Football Association is poised to deliver a more exciting league experience.
According to him, the FCT league is an annual competition that is being played among all grassroots clubs.
He said that it has been in existence for about 40 years, and that’s how it is in all states of the Federation.
Ilerika said currently a total of 22 matches have been played so far in the ongoing division one, and the league has been played both on the grass pitch of Area 10 and Astro turf pitch of Area 3.
“ The FCT league has two segments: division one and division two.
The division one features 18 clubs, divided into three groups of six teams each and each team are expected to play five matches in the group stage and the top two teams from each group qualify for the super six stage.
“ A total of 60 matches will be played that is 45 in the group stage and 15 in the super six.
“ It serves as a developmental platform for clubs to gain promotion to the National League and eventually the Premier League.
“ The winner of the FCT League represents the city in nationwide competitions,” he said.
He said in division two that approximately 30 teams have registered for division two. The competition will feature more groups than division one.
“ A meeting with registered teams is scheduled for Thursday by 10 a.m to finalise arrangements, and it is expected to kick off in July 3 in Abuja,” he said.
Apart from that, the Women’s league, as directed by the board of FCT FA, I have sent out the invitations for the registration.
“ The FCT FA is working to ensure a successful Women’s league, and all stakeholders are encouraged to participate and comply with registration procedures.
He expressed optimism about the future of the league, citing ongoing renovation works at the venues.
“The upgrades are expected to enhance the overall experience for players and spectators, leading to a better league in the coming year.
“With these developments, the FCT Football Association is poised to deliver a more exciting and enjoyable league experience,” he said.
He said that the ongoing division one,a total of 18 clubs are participating in a month-long tournament, which commenced on June 16 and was divided into three groups .
The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Six round to determine the ultimate champion .
2025 FCT Football Association League is being played at both Area 3 football pitch and area 10 old parade grounds in Abuja.