Abakaliki FC Settles Wage Dispute with Players Ahead of 2024/25 President Federation Cup Final
Abakaliki FC has settled a lingering salary dispute with its players just days before their President’s Cup final, restoring unity and boosting morale.
The resolution follows weeks of tension over unpaid wages, and the squad is now fully focused and ready to chase their first-ever Federation Cup title.
In a move that could restore morale and unity ahead of their most crucial match of the season, Abakaliki FC has successfully resolved a lingering salary dispute with its players. The club confirmed that it had settled all outstanding half-pay issues just days before their historic appearance in the 2024/25 President’s Federation Cup final.
The salary crisis, which reportedly began in April, had threatened to overshadow the team’s impressive run in the tournament. Sources within the club revealed that players had been receiving only 50% of their agreed wages due to “financial constraints,” sparking tension in the dressing room and raising fears of a boycott or disrupted preparations for the final.
Resolution reached after emergency meeting
According to an official club statement released on Thursday, the management held a closed-door meeting with players, coaching staff, and key stakeholders, where all concerns were addressed. The statement noted that full payments were made to all affected players following fruitful negotiations and intervention from supporters and local government officials.
“We are pleased to announce that all outstanding salaries have been cleared,” the statement read. “Our players have shown immense patience and professionalism throughout this period, and we are confident this resolution will strengthen the unity and spirit within the squad.”
Club President, Chief Damian Nweze, described the development as “a turning point” and expressed appreciation for the understanding shown by the players. “Football is more than just winning games, it’s about relationships and respect. These players have carried the badge with pride and deserve everything they are owed. We are now fully focused on bringing the cup home.”
Team ready for the final battle
The players, who had been reportedly demoralized by the prolonged wage delays, have now resumed full training in preparation for the final against high-flying Warri Rovers. Midfielder Chuka Ibekwe, one of the team’s standout performers, expressed relief over the resolution and said the team was now “mentally and physically ready” to give their all.
“We can now train without distraction,” Ibekwe said. “This final is more than a game for us, it’s a reward for the hard work we’ve put in all season. Now that the pay issue is settled, we want to give our fans a reason to celebrate.”
Fans react with optimism
Supporters of Abakaliki FC, many of whom were vocal about the players’ plight on social media, welcomed the news with optimism. The club’s Supporters Union issued a statement applauding management for taking swift action to resolve the matter and urged the team to “write history” in the upcoming final.
With the financial dispute now behind them, all eyes are on Abakaliki FC as they prepare to chase their first-ever President’s Federation Cup title, a feat that would cap off a season filled with grit, adversity, and now, redemption.
