Governor Otti Receives Torch Of Unity, Vows To Reward Athletes For National Sports Festival Victories

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has once again demonstrated his commitment to sports development and youth empowerment as he received the Torch of Unity for the upcoming 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games”, scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State from May 16 to 30, 2025.

The symbolic torch was presented to the Governor at Government House, Umuahia, by officials of the National Sports Commission, Abuja.

In his remarks, Governor Otti praised Team Abia for their outstanding performance and consistency, stating that sports remain one of t he most powerful tools for national unity.

“There is something that holds everybody together,and that is sports. It is one area where there is no discrimination. If someone isn’t good at the game, even if he’s your child, he doesn’t get to play,” the Governor said.

He emphasized that he had already approved and disbursed funds to ensure Abia’s full participation in the festival, affirming that the torch handover was merely ceremonial.

Governor Otti promised to celebrate and reward the state’s athletes for every trophy they return with from the games.

“I am happy with Team Abia. They have always made us proud. I assure you that for every trophy they win, we will celebrate them. The reward for good work is more work,” he added.

Mrs. Mbora Ikana, who led the delegation from the National Sports Commission, revealed that the Torch of Unity was flagged off on March 25, 2025, as a nationwide call to all states to prepare for the festival. She explained that the torch symbolizes peace and unity among Nigerians.

Delivering his charge,the Director of Sports in Abia State, Comrade Obioma George,  expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for his unwavering support and described Abia as an emerging sports hub.

He praised the Governor for reintroducing sports into secondary schools, a move that is already yielding results.

“Last year, one of our boys won three gold medals in weightlifting at the National Youth Games. Abia is the only state where the Governor personally welcomed and appreciated athletes from the Paralympics U-15 National Youth Games,” he noted.

He disclosed that 339 athletes will represent Abia State in 25 of the 40 approved sports at the National Sports Festival.

With preparations in full swing, Abia State is poised to make a bold statement at the 22nd National Sports Festival, driven by a Governor whose vision for sports development is yielding tangible results.

The event was also attended by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Affairs, Comrade Onyebuchi Chukwu, who represented the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development.