Otti Launches Abia’s First Tertiary Institutions Sports Fiesta, Predicts Emergence of Future Sporting Stars

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has affirmed that the inaugural Abia State Tertiary Institutions Sports Fiesta will become a breeding ground for future national and international sports champions.

Speaking through his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, who declared the event open, Governor Otti noted that his administration is committed to strengthening sports development through continuous investment in facilities and programmes that promote youth empowerment, unity, and healthy competition statewide.

He described the Sports Fiesta as a significant milestone in integrating structured sports activities into the state’s higher education system. According to him, the initiative will boost talent discovery and entrench a culture of excellence among students.

“This Sports Fiesta goes beyond competition. It is a platform designed to shape and elevate champions who will proudly represent Abia in national and global sporting arenas,” Otti said.

The Governor congratulated all participating institutions and encouraged students to uphold discipline, teamwork, fair play, and mutual respect throughout the event.

Dr. Emeka Enyiazu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tertiary Education and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, praised Governor Otti for approving the programme, describing it as a unifying force for tertiary institutions in the state. He added that ongoing reforms in Abia have revitalized critical sectors, including education and sports, aligning the state with global trends that use sports to strengthen character, unity, and institutional collaboration.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Uche Eme Uche, said the event’s theme — “Compete, Unite and Conquer” — mirrors the growing spirit of resilience and excellence among Abia youths. She emphasized that true education combines academics with creativity, physical fitness, and teamwork.

“Sports instill discipline, confidence, resilience, and leadership. This fiesta is part of shaping the complete learner in the new Abia,” she remarked.

Commissioner for Sports, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, applauded the synergy between ministries and reiterated that every young person should have an opportunity to thrive.

A vibrant march-past by participating institutions added colour to the opening ceremony. The institutions include: Nigeria British University Asa, Rhema University Aba, Clifford University, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Gregory University Uturu, Abia State University Uturu, Madonna College of Health Technology Olokoro, Abia State College of Health Science and Management Technology Aba, Abia State College of Education (Technical) Arochukwu, Amadeus University Amizi, and St. Anthony School of Nursing Science Aba.

The event was attended by top government officials, education leaders, and sports stakeholders such as: Barr. Mrs. Chinyere Okezie-Nwoko (Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education), Mr. Chinedu Nwosu (Special Adviser on Student Affairs), Professor Innocent Uwa (Vice-Chancellor), Hon. Chimezie Ukaegbu, Dr. I. O. Eluwa (Provost, ASCETA), former Mayor of Bende Barr. Chijioke Nwakwo, Obioma George (Director of Sports), Dodoh Okafor (SA on Media and Public Communication), and Mr. Francis Nwaubani (Acting DG, BCA).

The week-long sports fiesta features athletics, football, basketball, volleyball, table tennis, track and field events, and other contests among the state’s tertiary institutions. Winners will be honoured with medals and official recognition from the Abia State Government.