Abia State has reaffirmed its readiness for the 22nd National Sports Festival, as Governor Alex Otti received the symbolic Torch of Peace and Unity from officials of the National Sports Commission on Monday in Umuahia.
The torch presentation, which took place at the Government House, is part of the build-up to the 2025 National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games,” scheduled to hold in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from May 16 to 30.
Governor Otti, while accepting the torch, reiterated his administration’s commitment to sports as a critical tool for youth development, unity, and social advancement. He commended the state's athletes for their past performances and pledged full government support for Team Abia’s participation in this year’s competition.
“Sports unite people, break boundaries, and instill discipline. Our administration recognises its importance and will continue to invest in our athletes,” Otti said. He added that funding has already been approved to facilitate the team’s smooth participation in the games.
Leader of the delegation, Mrs. Mbora Ikana, said the torch symbolises peace and unity across the nation. She formally invited Abia to the festival and praised the state for its growing role in Nigeria’s sports scene.
Director of Sports in the state, Comrade Obioma George, lauded the governor for his unwavering support, noting that the government’s revival of school sports and consistent reward for athletic excellence had energized the sports sector.
According to him, Abia will participate in 25 of the 40 sporting events, with a contingent of 339 athletes.
The Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development was represented at the event by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth, Comrade Onyebuchi Chukwu.
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