Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has received the Torch of Unity for the second edition of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Sports Festival, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to youth development and sports excellence.
The Torch of Unity, a symbolic emblem of peace, unity and sportsmanship, is touring the nine Niger Delta states ahead of the festival scheduled to hold in Edo State from February 20 to 27.
Governor Otti received the torch on Wednesday at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia. He was represented by the Acting Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Merebole.
The governor described the torch as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience and collective progress among the Niger Delta states. He also described the NDDC Sports Festival as a laudable initiative that promotes discipline, teamwork, excellence and hope, stressing that sports remains a veritable tool for youth empowerment, social cohesion and national pride.
Otti commended Abia-born athletes who have consistently represented the state and Nigeria at national and international competitions, applauding their dedication and outstanding performances.
He gave special recognition to the state’s rising sports stars, including a young gymnast and two professional boxing champions, as well as stakeholders supporting grassroots sports development, particularly in schools.
The governor urged Abia athletes participating in the second edition of the NDDC Games to compete with a champion’s mindset, assuring them of his unwavering support.
Reaffirming his administration’s priorities, Otti restated his commitment to sustained investment in youth development, sports infrastructure and equal opportunities for women, noting that sports remains one of the strongest platforms for empowering young people and projecting national pride.
He also celebrated Abia’s sports ambassadors who have distinguished the state at continental and global levels, with special emphasis on female athletes, particularly the state’s basketball stars.
Among those honoured were 15-year-old gymnastics sensation, Stephanie Onutiruka, currently ranked number one in Nigeria, and the Okoronko boxing brothers, who recently recorded victories in their professional bouts.
“You are role models for our daughters. Your participation and success at continental levels demonstrate excellence, courage, skill and determination,” the governor said.
“These achievements reinforce our administration’s commitment to investing in youth development, sports infrastructure and equal opportunities for women.
“I also appreciate individuals and organisations building basketball courts and other sports facilities in our schools. Your contributions are invaluable,” he added.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, thanked Governor Otti for his consistent support and fatherly commitment to sports development in the state.
He explained that the Torch of Unity is a core component of the NDDC Sports Festival, which rotates among the nine Niger Delta states to promote regional integration and healthy competition.
Sir Ananaba also highlighted the inspirational impact of young gymnast Stephanie Onutiruka’s skills demonstration tour of schools in Umuahia, noting that it sparked enthusiasm and increased interest in sports among students.
Presenting a stewardship report, the Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, outlined major milestones recorded under the current administration in 2025.
He announced that Abia State emerged overall best in athletics at the National Basic School Sports Competition in Bauchi, where a pupil of Union Primary School, Afaraukwu, Chinenye Emmanuel, won seven gold medals.
Another athlete, Divine Onyekachi, won one gold and one bronze medal, earning Abia the award for best-performing state at its debut appearance at the competition.
Comrade George further disclosed significant progress in other sports, including the Abia Volleyball Team’s return to the Premier League with a historic fifth-place finish.
He also cited the Abia Handball Team’s reinstatement into Nigeria’s top league, as well as outstanding performances by Abia athletes in para-badminton and powerlifting.
According to him, Esther and Mark clinched seven medals each at the Islamic Games, among other notable achievements, describing Governor Otti’s intervention in sports as transformative.
In 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 continued excellence in representing the state.
The event was attended by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity; the 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.
