Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has charged the newly inaugurated boards of the state’s sports associations to look at ways of making the state the number one in the country’s sports development index, while pledging to support their quest for excellence.

The Abia State governor inaugurated the boards of the various sports federations under the State Sports Council on Wednesday, with a charge on members to reposition the sector as a key driver of youth development, economic growth, and state pride.

At the event held at the Indoor Hall of the Umuahia Township stadium, Otti described the move as a strategic step towards revitalising sports development in the state.

Represented by the Abia State Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, 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.

“This inauguration represents the renewal of our collective commitment to reposition sports as a vital driver of youth development and state pride,” he said.

He congratulated the newly appointed board members, describing their selection as both a recognition of their competence and a call to service.

He emphasised the transformative role of sports in society, noting that it remains a powerful platform for engaging young people and instilling discipline, teamwork, and resilience.

“Sport 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.

While acknowledging the abundance of sporting talent in the state, he stressed the need for proper structure and investment, adding: “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.”

He assured stakeholders of government’s support through infrastructure development, grassroots programmes, and partnerships aimed at boosting the sports ecosystem.

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

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.”

He stressed the need for accountability and measurable outcomes, saying: “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.”

Also speaking, Zonal Director of National Sports Commission, 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.

“There is a real transformation in Abia’s sports sector that other states are beginning to emulate,” he said.

“The task ahead is enormous. You must go the extra mile to sustain and build on the progress already recorded,” he advised.

Also speaking at the event, Abia State Director of Sports, Obioma George, disclosed that some Abia State coaches have been appointed as national coaches, adding that it was possible because of Otti’s vision and love for sports.

Speaking on behalf of the associations, the Chairman of the Abia State Athletics Association, Victor Okorie, commended Governor Otti’s leadership and pledged support for the administration’s vision. He said efforts would be made to unite current and former athletes to strengthen the state’s athletics programme.

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.