ABIA: Table Tennis Gets Boost As Association Supports Gov Otti’s Sports’ Agenda, Donates Facilities to Secondary Schools

The Chairman, Abia State Table Tennis Association and President of Aba Premier League Table Tennis, Mr Dike Dimiri, has donated 100 table tennis boards, playing bats and sets of balls to 100 Secondary Schools in Abia State.

Presenting the table to Government College Umuahia, Mr Dimiri said the gesture was in fulfilment of his earlier promise to the Abia State Sports Council.

“This donation is not just about tables,” he said, “it’s about igniting a passion for table tennis in the hearts and minds of our young ones. We want to see Abia become a breeding ground for future champions, and open doors of opportunities to the young ones.”

Adding a layer of excitement to the ceremony, Mr Dimiri announced a scholarship opportunity for the upcoming Inter-Collegiate Championship. A student can secure this scholarship by emerging victorious in the competition.

But there’s a crucial caveat: “No grade, no play.” Mr. Dike emphasized the importance of academic excellence alongside table tennis prowess, reminding students that maintaining good grades is essential to keeping their scholarship positions intact.

The chairman’s vision extends beyond simply providing equipment. He has also pledged to work with the state government to provide training programs for students. This will ensure the donated tables are utilized effectively and that students receive proper guidance to hone their skills.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Ag. Director of the Abia State Sports Council, Mr. Obioma George, lauded the initiative.

“The Abia State Sports Council wholeheartedly commends the Chairman of the Table Tennis Association for his dedication to youth development and the promotion of table tennis,” he stated.

“This donation aligns perfectly with the Governor’s mission to nurture sporting talent and foster healthy lifestyles. We pledge our full support to ensure the success of this program and to witness the rise of future Abia champions. The State Government is seriously interested in the development of sports in Abia State. Governor Alex Otti is a man who is interested in sports. He has planned to build a new stadium in Abia and to rebuild the Nsulu Game Village. He knows the importance of developing students through sports and education.”

The Principal of Government College Umuahia, Mr Austine Edegbe, expressed his gratitude for the donation of table tennis boards, stating, “We are grateful for the board. We will make maximum use of this board, and we will raise superstars that will represent Abia State and make Nigeria proud.”

The School Captain appreciated the chairman of the Table Tennis Association for the gesture. “On behalf of my fellow students, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to the Chairman of the Table Tennis Association and the Government of Abia State,” he declared.

“These tables are more than just equipment; they represent a chance to discover passions, harness our skills, and dream big. We, the students of Government College Umuahia, pledge to take full advantage of this opportunity. We will put our hearts and minds into learning the game, honing our skills, and striving for excellence, both in academics and on the court.”