Ikwuano LG Wins Abia Secondary Schools Unity Games

The 2nd edition of the Abia State Governor’s Secondary Schools Unity Games has concluded in Umuahia, with athletes from Ikwuano Local Government Area emerging as the overall champions.

The closing ceremony, held on Friday at the Umuahia Township Stadium, was attended by numerous dignitaries, sports stakeholders, and students from various LGAs in the state.

Ikwuano LGA secured the top spot with an impressive total of 131 medals, followed by Umunneochi LGA in first runner-up position with 74 medals. The champions of the inaugural edition, Umuahia North LGA, settled for second runner-up with 53 medals.

Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti, represented by Chief of Staff Pastor Calab Ajagba, urged the participating students not to underestimate their achievements.

“I want to challenge the Mayors to make sure that you have sporting facilities that will be able to motivate these young ones to give their best,” he stated.

He expressed confidence in the students’ potential, saying, “We are confident that as you (the young athletes) have started today in a very small way, tomorrow a great story will be told concerning you.

“So do not underrate what you are doing because there is a seed of greatness in you and tomorrow the world will be celebrating that greatness,” he added.

The Chief of Staff on behalf of the Governor, thanked the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mayors of the LGAs, sports administrators, and others for their efforts in making the event a success.

He assured that next year’s sporting activity would be even better, with the stadium undergoing renovations.

“It’s my expectation that as we gather here next year this stadium where you are standing will be in a new look,” he said.

Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development Sir Nwobilor Ananaba expressed joy over the achievements in the 2nd edition, noting that many young talents had been identified.

He assured that the government would nurture these talents to ensure they become professionals representing the state and country.

State Director of Sports Comrade Obioma George praised the high turnout and enthusiasm at the event, thanking the Governor for his interest in sports development and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports for his support.

He noted an improvement in the 2nd edition and appreciated the healthy competition witnessed.

“Last year, Umuahia North came first. And you know it’s an urban area. But today, they were demoted to third position. Look at the Ikwuano local government that came first, Ikwuano is semi-urban.

They took first position. It’s something that one should wonder, how did it happen? You know, it’s like magic,” Obioma remarked.

The event marked a significant milestone in promoting sports development and unity among secondary school students in Abia State.