Abia State Tertiary Institutions Games Torch Visits Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Clifford University, Others

The Abia State Tertiary Institutions Games torch of unity and peace continued its symbolic journey on 14 November 2025, making impactful stops at Clifford University, Ihie, Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, and St. Anthony’s School of Nursing Science, Aba, during its second day of movement.

At each institution, the torch was received with warmth, celebration, and a strong show of readiness for the upcoming 1st Abia State Tertiary Education Sports Fiesta.

At Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic Aba, the Rector, Engr. Dr C. K. Okoro expressed heartfelt appreciation to Governor Dr Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for extending sports development to tertiary institutions. He announced that the institution has acquired additional land to expand its sports facilities and is preparing to register for all 23 sporting events slated for the fiesta.
The Provost’s representative at St Anthony’s School of Nursing Science, Dr Nkoro, echoed similar gratitude, noting that the school has already registered in more than 10 sports and plans to increase that number.

Speaking earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tertiary Education and Chairman of the Central Working Committee, Dr Emeka Enyiazu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting sports at every educational level. He highlighted the incentives in place: full logistical support, attractive prizes, and ₦500,000 for institutions registering in at least five sports. He urged institutions to take full advantage of the opportunity.

The Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, emphasised that the fiesta will serve as a platform for discovering fresh talents capable of representing Abia State in senior championships. He added that talents discovered at the secondary school level are already representing the state at National Youth Games and junior competitions, and the Governor continues to support and motivate emerging athletes.

Team captains across the institutions pledged to give their best and thanked the Governor for creating an enabling environment for sports to flourish in tertiary institutions.

In the vote of thanks, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, Comrade Chinedu Nwosu, appreciated the institutions for their enthusiastic reception of the torch. He encouraged students to remain determined and fully showcase their talents during the fiesta.

Highlights of the day’s activities included the presentation of official invitation letters and flex banners for the Sports Fiesta.