By Amaechi Agbo
Jay 1 FC of Kubwa and Bwari Area Council have emerged champions of the 2026 FCT Football Association League after winning the men’s and women’s finals respectively in Abuja.
Jay 1 FC edged Basic FC Jabi 1–0 in the men’s final, with Miracle converting from the penalty spot to seal the title for the Kubwa side.
Coach Ezeudo Justin expressed delight over the triumph, saying the team’s hard work and determination had finally paid off. He disclosed that Jay 1 FC will now represent the Federal Capital Territory at the playoff, expressing confidence that the team can go all the way.
In the women’s final, Bwari defeated Kuje 1–0, with Patricia Habila scoring the decisive goal to hand Bwari the championship.
AMAC secured third place in the women’s competition after defeating Kwali 3–1 on penalties following a 1–1 draw.
Speaking at the event, Acting Director of Sports, FCT, Iyinola Ogundele, described the growing participation in sports across the Area Councils as a positive development, stressing that the FCT has the potential to reclaim its position as one of Nigeria’s leading sporting territories.
Ogundele noted that grassroots development remains crucial to discovering and nurturing young talents, adding that sports provide opportunities for young people beyond medals and competition.
He also called for stronger media support for sports development in the FCT, saying greater visibility would help attract more investment and opportunities for athletes.
The Chairperson of the Women’s Football Commitee FCT FA, Dr Pat Ajuma Ayegba, commended the performances of the participating teams, particularly the opportunities created for young female footballers.
Ayegba disclosed that the third edition of the FCT FA Women’s Inter-Area Council Tournament will hold in April 2027 and is expected to be bigger and better.
She said the tournament would also be used as part of efforts to revive the FCT Queens, providing a pathway for talented players to progress into elite football.
Representing FCT FA Chairman Adam Mouktar Mohammed, First Vice Chairman Alhaji Salihu Kolo said the league was organised to identify the best talents capable of representing the territory at higher levels.
Kolo said the association would continue to work with the Area Councils to strengthen grassroots football development and provide young players with opportunities to progress.
Meanwhile, Bwari Area Council Chief of Staff, Tukura John Daniel, attributed Bwari’s women’s triumph to months of preparation and the council’s commitment to sports.
Daniel said the victory was only the beginning, expressing confidence that Bwari would continue to compete strongly and defend its title in future editions.
The successful conclusion of the 2026 FCT League underlines the growing focus on grassroots football development in the nation’s capital, with stakeholders calling for sustained investment and stronger support for emerging talents.
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