Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has announced immediate employment for 15 exceptional athletes from the Abia State Sports Council and allocated N72 million to reward both athletes and coaches for their achievements.
This was revealed during a special reception at his residence in Nvosi, Isialangwa South, where he celebrated the athletes’ impressive performances across various competitions.
In addition to the employment offers and financial rewards, Governor Otti also donated a Coaster bus to the Abia State Sports Council and a vehicle to the State’s Director of Sports, Comr. Obioma George.
Governor Otti took the opportunity to express his dissatisfaction with the neglect of notable sports figures, pledging to provide support to former Super Eagles Head Coach, Christian Chukwu. He criticized the societal disregard for such personalities and promised to rectify this through targeted support.
Further, the Governor unveiled plans to review and rehabilitate the outdoor facilities at the Umuahia Township Stadium. The renovation will include upgrades to the tracks, fields, and other essential sports infrastructure, ensuring a better environment for athletes to train and compete.
The athletes, who have represented Nigeria and Abia State with distinction this year, have earned multiple medals at international competitions, including events in Uganda, the Paris Paralympics, and the National Youth Games in Asaba. Their achievements have drawn global attention to Abia’s ongoing sports revitalization under Governor Otti’s leadership.
Hon. Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba Nwadinma, the State’s Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, lauded the Governor’s commitment to restoring Abia’s sporting legacy. He emphasized that the recent successes in the sports ministry were a direct result of Governor Otti’s relentless dedication to youth empowerment and the state’s athletic resurgence. Nwadinma reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to maintaining this momentum, ensuring that Abia continues to excel in sports and youth development.
