Otti Unveils New Sports Boards, Targets Youth Empowerment and Growth

The Abia State Government has inaugurated boards for various sports federations under the State Sports Council, urging members to reposition the sector as a key driver of youth development, economic growth, and state pride.

The inauguration, held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Indoor Hall of Umuahia Township Stadium, was described by Governor Alex Otti as a strategic move to revitalise sports development in the state. Represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, the governor said the event marked a renewed commitment to using sports as a tool for youth empowerment and social cohesion.

“This inauguration reflects our determination to reposition sports as a vital force for youth development and state pride,” he said.

Governor Otti congratulated the newly appointed board members, noting that their selection was both a recognition of their competence and a call to service. He highlighted the importance of sports in engaging young people, instilling discipline, teamwork, and resilience, while also providing opportunities for talent discovery and global exposure.

He, however, stressed that talent alone is not sufficient without proper structure, investment, and management.

“Talent must be backed by effective administration and strategic investment. That is the responsibility of this board,” he added.

The governor assured stakeholders of continued government support through infrastructure development, grassroots initiatives, and strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening the sports ecosystem.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Sports, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, urged board members to be proactive and innovative, noting that government alone cannot fund sports development. He charged them to leverage their experience and networks to attract sponsorships and create sustainable funding channels.

“Be a catalyst for change, not a spectator. The success of this sector depends on your ability to act decisively,” he said.

Ananaba also emphasised accountability, warning that associations would be assessed based on their performance, including athlete development, competitions organised, and overall impact.

“The era of inactive associations is over. Results will be the benchmark,” he stated.

Also speaking, the Zonal Director of the National Sports Commission, Mr Bernard Ezeama, commended the state government for what he described as visible progress in the sports sector. He, however, urged the new board members to remain committed and build on existing achievements.

“The transformation in Abia’s sports sector is becoming a model for others. Sustaining it will require dedication and extra effort,” he said.

Ezeama further called for unity among sports associations, stressing that collaboration would strengthen the entire system.

Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, revealed that several coaches from Abia State have been appointed as national coaches, attributing the achievement to Governor Otti’s commitment to sports development.

Speaking on behalf of the board members, Chief Sampson Anaga pledged their readiness to deliver results, attract investment, and justify the confidence placed in them.

Taekwondo expert Chika Chukwumerije also underscored the role of sports in empowering youths and creating opportunities, calling for increased investment in grassroots development.

The event attracted government officials, sports administrators, stakeholders, and youths, all expressing optimism that the new boards would usher in a new era of growth and excellence in Abia’s sports sector.