Abia Warriors’ top scorer Emeka Obioma has expressed deep disappointment over his team’s failure to secure a top-three finish in the 2025/2026 NPFL season, a result that would have earned them a spot in the 2026/2027 CAF Confederation Cup. The team’s hopes were dashed on Sunday, 24 May 2026, after a 0-2 home defeat to Kun Khalifat FC at the Umuahia Township Stadium in Aba. Obioma, who has netted 11 goals this season, described the loss as “very unfortunate” and “painful,” lamenting that the team lost momentum at a crucial stage of the campaign.
For much of the season, Abia Warriors maintained a strong position in the top four, fueling optimism about a return to continental football. Their consistent performances kept them in contention for the coveted top-three finish, which would have guaranteed a place in the CAF Confederation Cup. However, the defeat to Kun Khalifat not only ended their continental hopes but also dropped them to seventh on the league table with 55 points. The result left fans and players alike heartbroken, especially given the team’s earlier promise.
Obioma emphasized that the loss was not due to poor performance or lack of effort. “It’s not as if we were outplayed. It wasn’t as if we didn’t get our chances to score,” he said. He added that the match turned out to be a “bad day for us in the office,” highlighting the unpredictable nature of football. The striker’s comments reflect the collective frustration within the squad, who had worked hard throughout the season to reach this stage.
In the wake of the defeat and the collapse of their top-three ambitions, Abia Warriors’ management took swift action. Head Coach Imama Amapakabo and his assistant, Bethel Orji, were suspended indefinitely. The decision was made under the leadership of Coach Sam John Obuh, who oversaw the club’s operations. To manage the team for the remainder of the season, former Super Eagles and Besiktas goalkeeper Ike Anubi Shorunmu was appointed as interim manager.
Abia Warriors will conclude their 2025/2026 NPFL campaign on Sunday, 24 May 2026, with a crucial away match against Warri Wolves at the Ozoro Stadium. While the continental dream is now over, the team will aim to end the season on a positive note and rebuild for future campaigns. The outcome of this final match could still influence their final league position and shape their preparations for the next season.
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