In a bold move to ensure that no sport is left behind in Abia State’s drive for sports excellence, Governor Alex Otti has officially inaugurated members of the 35 Sports Associations across the state.
The brief but significant ceremony took place at the Kanu Nwankwo Indoor Sports Hall within the Umuahia Township Stadium, where stakeholders in the sports sector gathered to witness what many described as another major step in repositioning Abia as a leading force in Nigerian sports development.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, Governor Otti charged the newly inaugurated association members to see their appointments not as mere titles, but as a serious call to service. He emphasized the crucial role sports play in youth empowerment, talent discovery, and social development, urging them to use their various platforms to drive positive change.
“Your appointment,” the governor stated, “is a call to service and a recognition of your capacity to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of sports in Abia State. The expectation is high, and so too is our confidence in your ability to deliver.”
He stressed that the present administration remains committed to creating opportunities for young people through sports, adding that every sporting discipline must be given equal attention and support to thrive.
Earlier in his address, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Obilor Nwadimma Ananaba, reminded the appointees that their responsibilities go beyond administration—they are now custodians of their respective sports and must work diligently to discover, nurture, and develop talents capable of becoming national and international champions.
According to him, sports development requires dedication, accountability, and vision.
“You are the custodians of your sport,” he said. “Ensure that every naira spent brings a smile to the face and a medal to the neck of your athlete.”
He noted that Governor Otti’s administration is determined to restore Abia’s pride in sports and expects the associations to align with that vision by delivering measurable results.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, highlighted Abia State’s remarkable achievements in both national and international sporting competitions. He described the inauguration as another milestone in Governor Otti’s deliberate effort to make Abia a reference point for sports excellence across Nigeria.
George praised the administration’s consistent investment in sports infrastructure, athlete welfare, and event hosting, noting that the state is gradually reclaiming its place among Nigeria’s sporting giants.
The Zonal Coordinator of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Bernard Ezeama also commended the state government for its outstanding commitment to sports development. He revealed that within just the first four months of the year, Abia State had successfully hosted several major national sporting events a feat he described as exceptional.
He jokingly remarked that he was already considering relocating to Abia because of the non-stop sporting activities taking place across the state.
“In terms of sports development, Abia is head and shoulders above many states in Nigeria,” he said. “This is a clear reflection of the outstanding performance of Governor Alex Otti. The newly inaugurated associations must support this sports-friendly government and ensure that Abia remains number one not just nominally, but in practical sports development.”
Delivering the vote of thanks, Olympian Chika Chukwumereije charged the newly appointed members to approach their assignments with seriousness and passion, reminding them that the talents they help discover today could become tomorrow’s global stars.
He noted that beyond medals and trophies, sports have the power to transform lives and lift families out of poverty.
“You may be discovering the next champion whose success will change the story of an entire family,” he said.
Among those inaugurated was the General Manager of the Abia State Newspapers and Publishing Corporation, Comrade Jones Nnanna Ike, who was appointed to serve in the Athletics Association.
The inauguration marks yet another strong statement of intent from the Otti administration one that sees sports not merely as competition, but as a powerful tool for youth development, economic growth, and state pride.
