Abia inaugurates sports federations boards, tasks members on repositioning sector

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

Inaugurating the boards on Wednesday at the Indoor Hall of the Umuahia Township Stadium, Governor Alex Otti described the move as a strategic step toward revitalizing sports development in the state.

Otti, represented by Ikechukwu Emetu, deputy governor, said that the event marked not just the beginning of a new administrative phase but a renewed commitment by the government to harness sports as a tool for youth empowerment and social cohesion.

“This inauguration represents the renewal of our collective commitment to reposition sports as a vital driver of youth development and state pride,” he said.

The governor congratulated the newly appointed board members, describing their selection as both a recognition of their competence and a call to service.

Otti emphasized the transformative role of sports in society, noting that it remains a powerful platform for engaging young people and instilling discipline, teamwork, and resilience.

“Sports offers opportunities for talent discovery, personal development, and global exposure, especially at a time when we must provide constructive pathways for our youth,” Otti said.

Otti, while acknowledging the abundance of sporting talents in the state, stressed the need for proper structure and investment.

“Talent alone is not enough. It must be supported by effective administration, strategic investment, and proper management, and that is where this board comes in,” he stated.

Otti assured stakeholders of government support through infrastructure development, grassroots programmes, and partnerships aimed at boosting the sports ecosystem.

Nwaobilor Ananaba, Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, in his address, urged the board members to adopt innovative and proactive approaches, noting that the government alone cannot fund sports development.

Ananaba described the members as individuals chosen for their influence, experience, and passion, urging them to act decisively.

“Government alone cannot shoulder this burden. That is why you have been carefully selected to drive change,” he said.

“Be a catalyst, not a spectator. Use your networks to attract sponsorship, create sustainable funding streams, and open doors that only you can open.”

Ananaba stressed the need for accountability and measurable outcomes.

“The days of associations existing only on paper are over. You will be judged by your results, the athletes you produce, the competitions you organize, and the lives you impact,” he said.

He outlined the administration’s vision of making Abia a leading sports destination in Nigeria, noting that such progress would translate into job creation and economic growth.

Bernard Ezeama, zonal director, National Sports Commission, in his speech, commended the state government for what he described as visible transformation in the sports sector.

Ezeama urged the newly inaugurated officials to remain committed and accountable in their roles.

“There is a real transformation in Abia’s sports sector that other states are beginning to emulate,” he said.

“The task ahead is enormous. You must go the extra mile to sustain and build on the progress already recorded,” he advised.

He further called for unity and collaboration among sports associations, stressing that collective success would strengthen the entire system.

“When one association rises, it lifts the entire sports council,” he noted.
Obioma George, director of sports, said that the Abia State sports coaches have been appointed as national coaches.

George said that all this is possible because of Otti’s vision and love for sports.

Sampson Anaga, speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated board members, pledged their commitment to delivering results, and assured that they would attract investors and justify the confidence reposed in them.

Also, taekwondo specialist, Chika Chukwumerije, highlighted the transformative power of sports in creating opportunities and empowering young people, urging stakeholders to invest more in talent development and grassroots programmes.

The event drew government officials, sports administrators, stakeholders, and youths from across the state, all expressing optimism that the new board would usher in a new era of growth and excellence in Abia sports.