Otti Lights Torch of Unity for 1st Abia Tertiary Institutions’ Games

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti has performed the symbolic lighting of the Torch of Unity and Peace for the 1st Abia State Tertiary Institutions Sports Fiesta, 2025.

The games, scheduled to hold from November 25 to 29, 2025, will feature 23 sporting events among 38 participating tertiary institutions in the state.

Speaking at a brief ceremony on Monday, at his Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA, Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth and sports development, stressing that the event symbolises hope, unity and the renewed spirit of the Abia youth.

The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, announced the approval of a N500,000 grant for any institution presenting athletes in five or more sporting events as an incentive for participation and excellence.

He urged students to embrace teamwork, discipline and purpose through sports, adding that the games would nurture future champions who would make the state proud.

In her remarks, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Eme Uche, said that the event will provide a platform for students in both public and private tertiary institutions to interact and showcase their talents with the aim of fostering unity and healthy engagement among them.

Also, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Nwobilor Ananaba, noted that the present administration’s vision for sports begins from the foundation level of both primary and secondary schools to identify and nurture young talents.

He informed that the initiative which has now been extended to tertiary institutions would further deepen youth engagement and talent development across the state.

The torch would now proceed be moved round all the participating tertiary institutions in the state before returning to Umuahia Township stadium for the duration of the games.