Abia Crowned Champions at Maiden South East Scrabble Championship in Umuahia

Abia State has emerged overall winners of the maiden South East Open Scrabble Championship, which concluded in Umuahia, after recording 18 wins and one draw in 22 games to clinch the title.

Anambra State finished second with 16 wins and a draw, while Imo State secured third place with 14 wins. Enugu and Ebonyi States came fourth and fifth respectively, missing out on podium finishes.

Declaring the tournament closed, the Abia State Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Nwaobilor Ananaba, represented by Permanent Secretary Mrs. Jane Igwe, commended Governor Alex Otti for his strong commitment to sports development and support in hosting the championship.

Ananaba also praised participating states for their discipline throughout the three-day event, expressing optimism that players would return home with improved skills, knowledge, and greater determination.

“At least you have tested God’s Own State. I thank you all for your participation and discipline. I believe you are going home better equipped and motivated to do more,” he said.

Also speaking, the State Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, appreciated Governor Otti for making the championship possible and lauded the Sports Commissioner for ensuring its success. He further thanked the athletes for traveling from across the region and wished them success in future competitions.

In an interview, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, Chinedu Thorpe, expressed delight at his achievement and commended the state government for hosting the event. He also encouraged young people to embrace Scrabble as a positive outlet to develop their talents and stay away from crime.