Gov. Otti Welcomes Niger Delta Games Torch, Vows Strong Abia Performance
Abia State on Thursday played host to the Niger Delta Games Torch as part of the symbolic tour across the region. The Torch was brought in from Akwa Ibom by Games Ambassador Joseph Edidiong, a weightlifter, who arrived at the Umuahia Township Stadium dressed in the colourful Akwa Ibom tracksuit.
He was received by Hon. Nwaobilor Ananaba, Abia State Sports Commissioner and Chairman of the State Liaison Committee, who led the procession to Government House. There, Governor Alex Otti, represented by Secretary to the State Government Dr. Emmanuel Meribole and accompanied by Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, formally welcomed the Torch.
Dr. Meribole reaffirmed the state’s readiness for the inaugural Niger Delta Games, scheduled to take place in Benin City, Edo State, from February 20 to 27.
He urged Abia athletes to compete with courage, uphold fair play, and deliver a strong performance. He also commended the nine Niger Delta states for pioneering their own regional multi-sports competition, noting that the initiative would further strengthen Nigeria’s dominance in talent discovery and athlete development.
Meribole praised the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for sponsoring the Games, designed and implemented by Dunamis-Icon Limited, and expressed optimism that the event would leave a lasting legacy for youth sports in the region.
Fred Edoreh, Project Director for the Games, was present to supervise the Torch ceremony and thanked Abia State for the warm reception. According to the Torch Tour roster, Imo State is next in line to receive the Games symbol.
