Abia State has joined the nationwide build-up to the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games”, slated to hold in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from May 16 to 30, 2025, as Governor Alex Otti on Tuesday, received the Torch of Peace and Unity.
The Torch, presented by a delegation from the National Sports Commission, Abuja, marks the official countdown to Nigeria’s biggest multi-sport event, which will gather athletes from across the country to compete for glory.
Receiving the torch from the leader of the Torch Team at his Nvosi Isialangwa South LGA office, Governor Otti reiterated the unifying power of sports among Nigerians.
The Governor commended Team Abia for their outstanding performances in previous competitions, noting that the state remains a strong force in Nigeria’s sporting landscape.
He further expressed satisfaction with the performance and dedication of Team Abia, adding that the state had no hesitation in approving their request to participate in the upcoming festival.
Governor Otti disclosed that the formal handover of the torch was merely symbolic, as his administration had already provided the necessary funds for the team’s full participation in the National Games competition.
“I am happy to acknowledge the appreciation from my team the Team Abia. They have always done us proud, they have even continued to even do better this time around that is why it was not a problem to approve their proposal”, he said.
The Governor urged Team Abia to continue to fly Abia’s flag high at the national level and
assured that victorious athletes would be celebrated accordingly.
“For every trophy you bring back, you will be appreciated. You have made us proud, and the reward for good work is more work”, the Governor added.
Presenting the Torch to the Governor earlier, the leader of the Torch Team, Mrs Mbora Ikanam, noted that the Torch of Peace and Unity symbolizes the spirit of friendship, healthy competition, and national cohesion which the National Sports Festival aims to foster.
In a vote of thanks, the Director of Sports in Abia State, Comrade Obioma George, lauded Governor Otti’s commitment to the development of sports, describing Abia as the new sports destination in Nigeria.
“Please tell the National Sports Commission that Dr. Alex Otti is the only Governor who has mandated the return of sports to secondary schools. Last year, we organized a remarkable school sports festival, and we are doing it again this year”, he noted.
Comrade George highlighted Abia’s success at the last National Youth Games, where a student athlete won three gold medals in weightlifting.
The Sports Director acknowledged Governor Otti’s recognition of athletes, including those from the Paralympics and U-15 National Teams.
He commended the Governor for his support especially in providing a brand-new air-conditioned coaster bus and employing talented athletes into the state’s workforce.
Comrade Obioma revealed that Abia would be fielding 339 athletes to compete in 25 of the 40 sports approved by the National Sports Commission.
“We are ready. We are in high spirits. We have trained. The rest is in the hands of God”, he said.
