Chairman of Abia Warriors Football Club, Coach John Sam Obuh, on Sunday held a special thanksgiving service to appreciate God and key supporters for his journey so far as leader of the Umuahia-based club.
The event took place at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Lugbe Parish, Abuja, and was attended by family, friends, well-wishers, and members of the football community.
In his address, Obuh expressed profound gratitude to God for the grace and strength bestowed upon him in the course of his duties.
He also extended his heartfelt thanks to those who entrusted him with the responsibility of leading Abia Warriors, particularly the Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, Deputy Governor, His Excellency Ikechukwu Emetu, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, and legal practitioner, Chief Umeh Kalu, SAN, who encouraged him to accept the role.
“I am deeply grateful to the Almighty for this journey and to everyone who has supported me, especially Abia State Governor Alex Otti, the deputy Governor, the commissioner of sports and Chief Umeh Kalu SAN, their confidence in me is what has kept me going,” Obuh said.
The former Golden Eaglets (U17) coach also extended his appreciation to the church and its congregation for their spiritual and moral support, which he credited as a contributing factor to the team’s recent success, qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup for the first time in the club’s history.
“I want to thank this church for standing by my family and supporting Abia Warriors in prayers. Your love and encouragement have played a role in our team reaching the continental stage,” he added.
Delivering a sermon during the service, the Rt. Rev. Nicholas Agwu, moderator of the presbytery, praised Obuh for his humility, integrity, and strong Christian values.
“Coach John Obuh is not just a leader in football but a man of great humility and fear of God. He could easily serve as a pastor of a parish. His character speaks volumes,” Rev. Agwu said.
The service ended on a celebratory note, with members of the congregation joining the Obuh family in thanking God for His faithfulness and praying for continued success with Abia Warriors.