Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has received the Torch of Unity for the second edition of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Games, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sports excellence and youth development.
The Torch of Unity, a symbol of unity, resilience and sportsmanship, will tour the nine states of the Niger Delta region ahead of the sports festival scheduled to hold in Edo State from February 20 to 27.
Receiving the torch on Wednesday at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, Governor Otti, who was represented by the Acting Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Merebole, described the NDDC Games as a welcome initiative that promotes discipline, teamwork, hope and excellence among young people.
He said sports remains one of the most effective platforms for youth empowerment, social cohesion and the promotion of national pride, adding that his administration will continue to invest in sports infrastructure and human capital development.
Governor Otti commended athletes of Abia origin who have represented the state and Nigeria at national and international competitions, noting their outstanding performances across various sporting disciplines.
He specifically praised a young gymnast, 15-year-old Stephanie, who is currently ranked number one in Nigeria, as well as two boxing champions, popularly known as the Okoronkos, for their recent professional victories. The Governor also acknowledged Abia’s female basketball stars for their achievements at continental and international levels.
“You are role models for our daughters. Your performances at continental stages reflect excellence, courage, skill and determination. Your achievements reinforce our commitment to youth development, sports infrastructure and equal opportunities for women,” he said.
Governor Otti also expressed appreciation to individuals and organisations supporting sports development in schools, particularly those building basketball courts and providing sporting facilities for students.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, thanked the Governor for his consistent support and fatherly role in advancing sports in the state. He explained that the Torch of Unity is part of the NDDC Sports Festival initiative designed to promote regional integration and healthy competition among the nine NDDC states.
Sir Ananaba highlighted the inspiring skills demonstration by young gymnast, Stephanie Onutiruka, during a tour of schools in Umuahia, noting that her performance sparked excitement among students and encouraged greater participation in sports.
In his stewardship report, the Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, outlined major achievements recorded under the current administration in 2025. He disclosed that Abia State emerged overall best in athletics at the National Basic School Sports Competition in Bauchi, with Chinenye Emmanuel of Union Primary School, Afaraukwu, winning seven gold medals.
Another athlete, Divine Onyekachi, also won one gold and one bronze medal, making Abia the best-performing state at its debut appearance.
Comrade George further reported significant progress in other sports, including Abia Volleyball Team’s return to the Premier League with a historic fifth-place finish, the Abia Handball Team’s return to Nigeria’s top handball league, and outstanding performances by Abia athletes in para-badminton and powerlifting. He noted that Esther and Mark each won seven medals at the Islamic Games.
Describing Governor Otti’s intervention in sports as transformative, Comrade George pledged continued commitment to securing more laurels for the state.
In their goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Abia State Basketball Association, Mr Victor Okoro, and Abia-born international basketball star, Ezinne Kalu, praised Governor Otti for his unwavering support for sports development and pledged to keep flying the Abia flag high.
The event was attended by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth, Dr Onyebuchi Chukwu; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development; and other top government officials.
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