Cross River State’s growing reputation as a hub for sports development and tourism has received a major boost following the successful bid to host the 2026 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Championship, a feat attributed to the strategic investments of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu in sports infrastructure.
Chairman of the Cross River State Sports Commission, Mr. Etta Lawrence Itanya, made this known during a meeting held at the VIP Lounge of the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar, where he commended Governor Otu for approving and releasing funds for the renovation of the State Box and the upgrade of critical facilities at the stadium.
According to Itanya, the governor’s intervention came at a crucial time and played a significant role in securing hosting rights for the prestigious championship, which is scheduled to take place from July 11 to 18, 2026.
He described the approval of funds for the renovation of the State Box as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to creating modern sporting facilities capable of attracting national and international events to the state.
“We sincerely thank His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his commitment to sports infrastructure development. The approval and release of funds for the renovation of the State Box and the improvements at the U.J. Esuene Stadium underscore the importance this administration places on sports as a tool for youth development, economic growth, and social inclusion,” Itanya stated.
The Sports Commission chairman disclosed that the renovation project would include modern seating arrangements, air-conditioning systems, television facilities, upgraded restrooms, and enhanced security access aimed at improving the comfort and experience of dignitaries, sports enthusiasts, and visitors.
He noted that the ongoing upgrade of the stadium’s facilities, including improvements to the pitch, was instrumental in convincing the Nigeria Women Football League to approve Cross River as host of the 2026 championship.
Describing the hosting rights as a landmark achievement, Itanya said the development aligns with Governor Otu’s vision of positioning Calabar as a leading destination for sports tourism and sporting excellence in Nigeria.
He added that preparations were already underway to ensure participating teams, officials, and supporters enjoy the renowned hospitality for which Cross River is known.
The chairman further emphasized that the championship would provide opportunities for local businesses, boost economic activities, and showcase the state’s capacity to host major sporting events.
Also speaking, Chairman of Pelican Stars Football Club, Mrs. Sefia Patrick Aribiah, expressed appreciation to Governor Otu for his unwavering support for sports development in the state, noting that his investments continue to create opportunities for athletes and sports administrators.
She also commended the Chairman of the Cross River State Sports Commission for his leadership and commitment, which contributed significantly to securing the hosting rights for the 2026 NWFL Championship.
The championship will be hosted at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar, with top women’s football clubs from across the country expected to converge on the state for the week-long competition.
The meeting was attended by the management and staff of Pelican Stars Football Club, as well as other staff of the Cross River State Sports Commission.
By Akong Ogar
