Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Chairman, Gbenga Elegbeleye, has praised Nigeria National League (NNL) side Abakaliki FC for their historic achievement in the President Federation Cup.

The Ebonyi-based club secured their place in the final after defeating Ikorodu City 5-4 on penalties in Wednesday's semi-final clash at the Bwari Stadium in Abuja.

Abakaliki FC's journey to the final has been nothing short of remarkable, having eliminated several NPFL giants including Enyimba, Rivers United, and Nasarawa United along the way.

Speaking to NNL media after the match, Elegbeleye expressed his admiration for the lower division side's performance: "What we've witnessed is the beauty of the Federation Cup. Abakaliki FC played with heart, and their composure during the shootout was commendable."

The NPFL chairman further emphasized the significance of Abakaliki's achievement for Nigerian football development, stating: "This also affirms that the NNL is not just a feeder league but the heartbeat of Nigerian football development."

Abakaliki FC will now face Kwara United in the final of the prestigious competition, as they look to complete their fairy-tale run with silverware.

The club's remarkable cup run has captured the imagination of football fans across Nigeria, demonstrating the competitive nature of the country's football pyramid and providing inspiration for other lower-division teams.