Abia Inaugurates Sports Council Boards, Tasks Members on Repositioning Sector for Youth Development, Talent Discovery

The Abia State Sports Association Members have been inaugurated with a charge on members to reposition the sector as a key driver of youth development, talent discovery, and state pride.

Inaugurating the boards on Wednesday, at the Indoor Hall of the Umuahia Township stadium, Governor Alex Otti said 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.

The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, congratulated the newly appointed board members, describing their selection as both a recognition of their competence and a call to service.

He noted that the initiative represented a deliberate commitment to harness sports as a platform for engaging youths and creating opportunities.

“Today marks not just the beginning of a new administrative phase, but the renewal of our collective commitment to reposition sports as a vital driver of youth development and state pride,” the Governor stated.

He charged the newly inaugurated members of the sports associations to approach their responsibilities with innovation, transparency, and a results-driven mindset.

According to him, while Abia is richly endowed with sporting talents, success will depend on effective structure, strategic investment, and dedicated leadership.

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

“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.”

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

Sir 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.”

Sir 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 organise, 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.

Also speaking, Zonal Director of National Sports Commission, Mr Bernard Ezeama, commended the state government for what he described as visible transformation in the sports sector.

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

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

Contributing, the Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George highlighted recent achievements, including the emergence of several national coaches from Abia across different sporting disciplines.

Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated board members, Sampson Anaga pledged their commitment to delivering results, assuring 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.

In an interview, Pro-chancellor and Founder of Lux Mundi, who is also the Patron of Darts, Prof Gabriel Okenwa expressed appreciation to the state government for entrusting the team with a critical role in repositioning sports.

He assured the government and stakeholders of their commitment to delivering results.

“We have taken up this assignment and want to assure His Excellency that we will do our best. As Patron, I take responsibility that we will make Abia State proud, as well as the association and especially our athletes.”

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’s sports sector.