UMUAHIA — Abia State Matadors have departed for Lagos for the 2026 Ardova Handball Premier League, with a charge from the Chairman of the Abia State Handball Association, Deaconess Njum Nnennaya Umah-Onyemenam, FCA, to compete with discipline, unity and a winning mentality.
The championship is scheduled to hold from 6th to 21st November 2026, with the Matadors set to open their campaign on Saturday, 7th November 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
Addressing the players and technical crew during the departure gathering, Dr. Onyemenam charged them to remain focused, disciplined, united and committed to excellence throughout the championship.
She reminded the players that representing Abia State is both a privilege and a responsibility, urging them to demonstrate outstanding sportsmanship, determination and a winning mentality in every encounter.
The Chairman reaffirmed her commitment to the growth and development of handball in Abia State, stressing that the administration of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, is driven by a vision of making Abia State number one across all sectors, including sports.
According to her, the Matadors must embrace this vision by competing with courage, professionalism and a strong desire to bring honour to the state.
Dr. Onyemenam further assured the team of her continued moral and material support, noting that the welfare and success of athletes remain important priorities of the Association.
In a remarkable demonstration of personal commitment, the Chairman presented a support fund to the team’s Head Coach, Mrs. Eucharia Udeh, on behalf of the entire team.
The gesture was received with excitement and appreciation by the players and officials, who expressed profound gratitude to Dr. Onyemenam for her consistent encouragement, generosity and dedication to the progress of Abia State handball.
The players described the Chairman’s support as a major source of motivation and pledged to reciprocate the confidence reposed in them through impressive performances at the championship.
Another highlight of the occasion was the presentation of customised travel bags and sporting kits bearing the identity of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, to the Chairman of the Association.
The presentation symbolised the team’s readiness to represent Abia State with pride, unity and professionalism at the national championship.
Before the team’s departure, Dr. Onyemenam offered heartfelt prayers for divine protection, journey mercies, good health, injury-free participation and outstanding success throughout the competition.
She wished the players, coaches and accompanying officials safe travels to Lagos and a successful championship campaign.
The Head Coach, Mrs. Eucharia Udeh, appreciated the Chairman’s financial and moral support and expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness to compete favourably against other participating clubs.
Supporters, sports enthusiasts and the good people of Abia State have been encouraged to follow the Matadors’ campaign, cheer the team on and support their quest for sporting excellence.
Onyemenam Charges Matadors To Make Abia Proud As Team Departs For Ardova Premier League
