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The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti has declared open the maiden edition of the Abia State Tertiary Education Sports Fiesta (ASTESF) for 2025.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor at the Umuahia Township Stadium on 25 November 2025, the Deputy Governor, Engr Ikechukwu Emetu, urged participating students to maintain professionalism and uphold strong moral values throughout the competition. He added that prizes have been set aside for exceptional performers.
The Governor encouraged the athletes to give their best, noting that outstanding performances at the Fiesta could shape their future prospects in sports at national, international and intercontinental levels. He emphasised that the event has the potential to project the history and sporting culture of Abia State.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof Eme Uche Eme, announced that the theme of this year’s Fiesta is Compete, Unite and Conquer. She welcomed universities, polytechnics, monotechnics and specialised institutions to the historic first edition of the sports event.
Prof Eme reiterated that the competition was designed to foster unity among students across tertiary institutions and to celebrate those with notable sporting talents, alongside other benefits the Fiesta aims to promote. She commended the Governor for his commitment to youth and sports development, describing him as a leader who prioritises the growth of young people.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Central Organising Committee, Dr Emeka Enyiazu, said Abia State, under the administration of Dr Chioma Otti, continues to stand out through innovation, inclusion and positive transformation. He expressed delight at the launch of ASTESF and noted that the state government has revived key sectors, including sports, education and the economy, while motivating young people to invest their energy and creativity in the state.
The ceremony attracted a large turnout of students from various institutions, who gathered to witness the historic flag-off. Schools that participated in the march past included Amadeus University Amizi, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Abia State University Uturu, Abia State College of Education (Technical) Arochukwu, Gregory University Uturu, MC Dona College of Health Technology, among others.
Sporting activities scheduled for the Fiesta include: judo, karate, table tennis, football, swimming, basketball, badminton and several others.
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