ABIA STATE INAUGURATES PARA ATHLETICS ASSOCIATION BOARD SETS DEVELOPMENT AGENDA

The Abia State Government has officially inaugurated the Board of the Abia State Para Athletics Association, marking a major step in its commitment to inclusive sports development, athlete welfare, and equal opportunities for all athletes in the state.

The inauguration took place on April 29, 2026, at the Indoor Hall of Umuahia Township Stadium. It was conducted on behalf of the Governor, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu. He charged the new board to provide strong leadership, drive growth in para athletics, promote athlete sponsorship, and create more opportunities for athletes to compete at national and international levels.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Nwadimma Ananaba, urged the board to align with the government’s vision of making Abia a leading sports hub in Nigeria. He stressed the need for dedication, transparency, and teamwork in building an inclusive and successful sports system. The event was attended by top government officials, sports administrators, and key stakeholders including the Director, Abia State Sports Council, George Obioma.

The Board includes experienced professionals and sports enthusiasts from Nigeria and the diaspora.

Members are:
Chief Uduma Idika Uduma, Chairman (Ochiriozua 1 of Ugwuoyiriegbe);
Professor Idika Awa Uduma;
Dr. Clifford Nnadozie, Vice Chairman;
Mr. Jack Eke (Trans JT Ltd, Australia);
Mr. Godwin Onyeacho (Press);
Mr. Oji Kelechi;
Head Coach Owom Onyekwere;
Miracle Azoribe (Secretary);
Mr. Olisaemeka Okwu;
Sir Osinachi Nnedu (Onwa Na Isiokpo), CEO Ositini Bathroom Enterprise;
Rev. Basil Igbozuruike, JP;
Mr. Samuel Uduma;
Mr. Henry Nwasu;
Mr. Victor Okoria;
Mr. Uduma Ngele (Udumeze na Spain).

In his remarks, the Chairman, Chief Uduma Idika Uduma (Ochiriozua 1 of Ugwuoyiriegbe), described his appointment as a call to serve. “Our responsibility is to provide direction and ensure our para-athletes are supported to compete and succeed at all levels,” he said.

He also shared his personal journey in sports, noting that he won Abia State’s first gold medal in 1992 and later represented Nigeria at the World Junior Championships in 1998, the All African Games, and the Olympic Games in 2000. Drawing from this experience, he emphasized the importance of proper support, structure, and opportunities for young athletes.

Chief Uduma thanked the Governor for setting up a dedicated board for para athletics, describing it as a strong step toward inclusion and equal opportunity. “We are grateful for this initiative, which ensures that para-athletes are properly represented and given the opportunity to thrive,” he said.

He added that the board will work closely with the government and partners to improve grassroots development, strengthen athlete welfare, and mobilize resources. According to him, talent discovery, structured training, and increased competition exposure will be key priorities.

The Chairman also appreciated sponsors and stakeholders for their continued support, noting that their contributions have already helped athletes compete at the national level. He concluded by reaffirming that sports remains a powerful tool for youth empowerment, economic growth, and social inclusion, and pledged the board’s commitment to helping every athlete reach their full potential.