The Chairman of the Abia State Athletics Association, Victor Okorie, has praised Governor Alex Otti for his remarkable achievements in youth development, noting that the governor's interventions in sports have reignited passion for a sector that once placed Abia at the forefront in Nigeria. Okorie made these remarks ahead of the inauguration of the state's sports associations, which was conducted by Abia State Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu.
Okorie, tasked with leading a new era of growth in Abia athletics, stated that his role as chairman has allowed him to put his principles into practice. In a prior statement, the state government announced that the formal inauguration of the various boards of Abia State sports associations would take place at the Kanu Nwankwo Hall of the Umuahia Township Stadium, starting at 9:00 a.m. The directive instructed all association secretaries and coaches to ensure the presence of their chairmen and members at the event.
Expressing his delight, Okorie thanked Governor Otti for his visionary leadership and steadfast dedication to sports development in the state. Okorie, who also serves as the Athletics Federation of Nigeria's (AFN) Performance Director, added: "Your decision to delegate the inauguration of all Abia State Sports Associations to the deputy governor is highly commendable and clearly reflects the seriousness your administration attaches to sports development. This thoughtful action underscores a strong institutional approach and signals a renewed direction for sports growth in Abia State."
He further stated: "As chairman of the Abia State Athletics Association, I am honored by this opportunity to serve. We fully align with your vision and are committed to mobilising both current and former athletes to work together in building a stronger and more competitive athletics programme for Abia State. We are ready to deliver results that will make our state proud."
