Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, on Tuesday flagged off the maiden Abia State All Secondary Schools Unity Sports Competition with the official lighting of the Sports Festival Torch.

During the epoch event highlighted by glamour and fanfare, Governor Otti also emphasized his administration’s determination to revitalize grassroot sports in the 'God's Own' State.

Governor Otti was represented on the occasion by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Lekwachi Emetu. He encouraged the students to showcase their talents, not only by representing Abia State at national sports meets  but also competing at the international level.

He urged them to avoid things that  will affect their growth, but rather embrace true sportsmanship during the competition.

Commending the achievements of Abia State's Para Olympic athletes at the 2023 Abuja Para-Olympic Games, where the state finished second on the overall medals table, Governor Oti appreciated their efforts during the competition. The Abia State Number One citizen also also noted that despite their conditions, they have proved that 'there is ability in disability'.

Governor Otti assured youths in the state of his administration's commitment to their development.

The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, in his address, acknowledged the Ministry’s resolve to keep developing sports, and appreciated Governor Otti for always supporting and approving every good idea and proposals in sports development.

Sir Ananaba, emphasized the importance of the first edition of Governor Alex Otti’s Secondary School Unity Games, as, according to him, "it will help in establishing a robust sports foundation from the grassroot".

The Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Sports & Youth Development, Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, praised Governor Otti’s commitment to excellence, as he also highlighted the various achievements in infrastructure and human capital development in the state.

High point of the event was the decoration of Para Olympians and the ceremonial lighting of the inaugural Governor Alex Otti’s Secondary School Unity Games Torch by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, with entertainment from the various cultural groups of schools that attended the event.