FIC Report (Abia State) – Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has officially launched the maiden edition of the Abia State Tertiary Institutions Sports Fiesta, 2025, by lighting the Torch of Unity and Peace. The ceremony took place at the Governor’s country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, with Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu representing Governor Otti.
The Sports fiesta is scheduled to hold from November 25 to 29, 2025, and will feature 23 sporting events across 38 participating tertiary institutions in the state. The Governor’s representative Engr Emetu reaffirmed the present administration’s commitment to youth and sports development, stating that the event symbolizes hope, unity, and the renewed spirit of Abia youths.
“The torch represents more than just a flame; it embodies the passion, energy, and unity of our youths. As it travels through our institutions, it will carry a message of discipline, excellence, jand teamwork,” he said.
Gov Otti urged students to embrace teamwork discipline and be focused and as a way to motivate them announced that #500,000 will be given to any institution that presents athletes in five or more sporting events in the just flagged off tertiary institutions sports fiesta.
In her remark, Commissioner for Education, Professor Uche Eme Uche, described the fiesta as a bold step towards providing students with a sense of belonging and inclusion, encouraging active participation in sporting and creative competitions.
She noted that the fiesta reflects the inclusiveness of the Otti administration’s education policies, providing equal opportunities for students from both public and private institutions to showcase their talents.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Sir Nwobilo Wadimma Ananaba, emphasized the governor’s vision for grassroots sports development, aiming to identify and nurture outstanding talents.
In his words, “the event will promote healthy competition, teamwork and social skills among students, showcasing emerging talents that could represent Abia and Nigeria in future Competition”.
Dignitaries at the ceremony included the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, members of the State Executive Council, and other notable officials.
Signed
Amah Ijeoma
FIC Correspondent
Office of the Deputy Governor.
11-11-2025
