Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has charged the newly inaugurated boards of the state’s sports associations to prioritize youth development and economic growth through sports. He made this call during the inauguration ceremony held at the Indoor Hall of the Umuahia Township stadium on Wednesday.
Governor’s Vision for Sports Development
Governor Otti, represented by Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, emphasized that the event marked a renewed commitment to reposition sports as a key driver of youth empowerment and social cohesion. He described the move as a strategic step towards revitalizing sports development in the state.
“This inauguration represents the renewal of our collective commitment to reposition sports as a vital driver of youth development and state pride,” Otti stated. He congratulated the newly appointed board members, noting that their selection was both a recognition of their competence and a call to service.
The governor highlighted the transformative role of sports in society, stressing that it remains a powerful platform for engaging young people and instilling discipline, teamwork, and resilience. “Sport offers opportunities for talent discovery, personal development, and global exposure, especially at a time when we must provide constructive pathways for our youth,” he said.
Investment and Infrastructure
While acknowledging the abundance of sporting talent in the state, Otti stressed the need for proper structure and investment. “Talent alone is not enough. It must be supported by effective administration, strategic investment, and proper management, and that is where this board comes in,” he added.
He assured stakeholders of government support through infrastructure development, grassroots programs, and partnerships aimed at boosting the sports ecosystem.
Commissioner’s Call for Innovation
In his address, the Commissioner for Sports, Nwaobilor Ananaba, urged board members to adopt innovative and proactive approaches. He noted that the government alone cannot fund sports development and called on the members to use their influence and networks to attract sponsorship and create sustainable funding streams.
“Government alone cannot shoulder this burden. That is why you have been carefully selected to drive change,” Ananaba said. “Be a catalyst, not a spectator. Use your networks to attract sponsorship, create sustainable funding streams, and open doors that only you can open.”
He stressed the need for accountability and measurable outcomes, warning that “the days of associations existing only on paper are over. You will be judged by your results, the athletes you produce, the competitions you organize, and the lives you impact.”
National Recognition
Zonal Director of the National Sports Commission, Bernard Ezeama, commended the state government for the visible transformation in the sports sector. He urged the newly inaugurated officials to remain committed and accountable in their roles.
“There is a real transformation in Abia’s sports sector that other states are beginning to emulate,” Ezeama said. “The task ahead is enormous. You must go the extra mile to sustain and build on the progress already recorded.”
Abia State Director of Sports, Obioma George, disclosed that some Abia State coaches have been appointed as national coaches, attributing this to Governor Otti’s vision and love for sports.
Pledge from Associations
Speaking on behalf of the associations, Chairman of the Abia State Athletics Association, Victor Okorie, commended Governor Otti’s leadership and pledged support for the administration’s vision. He said efforts would be made to unite current and former athletes to strengthen the state’s athletics program.
The event drew government officials, sports administrators, stakeholders, and youths from across the state, all expressing optimism that the new boards would usher in a new era of growth and excellence in Abia’s sports sector.
