Abia State Government has inaugurated the first-ever University and Tertiary Institutions Sports Fiesta, with Governor Alex Otti declaring the event open at the Umuahia Township Stadium.
Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu recently, Governor Otti described the Fiesta as a historic milestone in the state’s drive to promote youth empowerment, sports development, and academic excellence. He noted that the event marks a new chapter for tertiary institutions across Abia.
The Governor recalled the symbolic sports torch, ignited weeks earlier in Isiala Ngwa South, which travelled through 20 public and private institutions before arriving at the stadium. He said its journey carried a strong message of hope, unity, and renewed purpose for young people.
Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to nurturing talent and expanding opportunities beyond academics.
“Education is incomplete without platforms that build teamwork, discipline, creativity, and physical fitness,” he said. “Sports remain one of the strongest tools for shaping future champions and uniting communities.”
He emphasized that the government’s investment in logistics, accommodation, and participation grants demonstrated that “every youth matters and every talent counts.” He encouraged athletes to uphold integrity, fairness, and sportsmanship as they compete in 23 sporting events.
Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Eme Uche, said the Fiesta is anchored on the theme “Compete, Unite, Conquer” which reflects the spirit of a new Abia where young people support one another and pursue excellence. She stressed that sports are vital for building resilience, discipline, teamwork, and character.
Contributing, the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing youth potential. He noted that the Governor’s Secondary School Unity Games laid the foundation for grassroots talent discovery, while the new Fiesta extends that vision to tertiary institutions.
Chairman of the Organising Committee, Dr. Emeka Enyiazu, described the event as a movement promoting unity and development across public and private institutions. He said sports, like education, are a universal language that strengthens leadership, teamwork, and excellence.
In a vote of thanks, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Barr. Chinyere Okeziem Nwoko, expressed appreciation to partners and participants. She said the Fiesta represents a strategic investment in the physical, mental, and social well-being of students, affirming Abia’s commitment to holistic education.
